Growing up in a low-income household taught me perseverance long before I learned the word itself. I learned it through watching my parents work long hours, through budgeting every expense, and through understanding early on that opportunities were not handed to us, we had to earn them. There was no safety net, which meant failure was not just disappointing, but costly. That reality pushed me to become disciplined, resourceful, and intentional with every decision I made. Because money was limited, I learned how to maximize what I had. I sought out free academic resources, applied relentlessly to scholarships, and treated education as an investment rather than an obligation. Maintaining strong academic performance was not about competition, it was about survival and stability. These experiences shaped my work ethic and gave me a deep appreciation for access to education, technology, and mentorship. Today, I am actively working toward my goals by pursuing higher education with focus and purpose, while involving myself in leadership, research, and professional development opportunities that will allow me to give back. I plan to use my experiences to support students from similar backgrounds by mentoring, sharing resources, and advocating for equitable access to education. Coming from a low-income household did not limit my ambition, it sharpened it. I carry those lessons forward with the goal of creating opportunities not just for myself, but for others who are still searching for theirs.

My name is Sandy Chi, and I’m currently a freshman majoring in business with a concentration in accounting and finance. I’m a first-generation college student from a low-income background, raised in New York where my parents run a small Chinese restaurant. Watching them work 12-hour days to keep the business afloat gave me an early crash course in grit, discipline, and the realities of small business ownership. It also sparked my interest in entrepreneurship—not just for financial success, but to create something sustainable, impactful, and meaningful to my community. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden I carry while pursuing my degree. Despite qualifying for financial aid, I still rely heavily on work-study and part-time jobs to cover daily expenses. Every dollar of support allows me to devote more time to my studies and less time worrying about money, which ultimately pushes me closer to my dream: to become a certified public accountant (CPA) and eventually open a financial consulting firm aimed at helping minority-owned small businesses thrive. My parents didn’t have access to financial advisors or accounting experts when they launched their business. I want to change that for the next generation of entrepreneurs like them. One moment that tested me emotionally and physically was during high school, right in the middle of the pandemic. I was taking AP classes, leading my Masterminds and tennis teams, and helping out at the restaurant—which had switched to takeout-only to survive. At one point, I was falling behind academically, mentally exhausted, and debating whether college was even worth it. I felt isolated and overwhelmed. But instead of giving up, I started setting small, achievable goals each week—finishing one assignment at a time, reaching out to teachers for support, and carving out short breaks to mentally recharge. What got me through that time was learning to ask for help, something I never felt comfortable doing before. That experience taught me that strength isn’t about doing everything alone—it’s about knowing when to lean on others. My long-term goal is to not only become a CPA but also to mentor other first-gen students and aspiring business owners. I believe business isn’t just about profit—it’s about purpose. Whether it’s helping a family-run restaurant manage its taxes, guiding a teenager through FAFSA, or launching a startup incubator for local high school students, I want my career to serve others. This scholarship is more than just financial aid to me—it’s an investment in the legacy I hope to build.

Growing up in a family that runs a restaurant, I’ve always had a firsthand look at what it takes to build and sustain a business. My parents’ Chinese restaurant has been both a source of pride and a symbol of perseverance. From the hours spent helping clean after closing to learning how to handle customer relations, I’ve witnessed the hard work and dedication required to keep a business running. However, I’ve also seen the challenges my family faces, especially as immigrants, balancing the books and managing a small business in a competitive industry. These experiences ignited my passion for entrepreneurship and motivated me to pursue a business career in college, with the goal of creating my own company that would not only succeed but also make a meaningful impact. In the future, I hope to start a company that integrates technology with sustainability. I am particularly interested in creating a business that focuses on environmentally friendly solutions for everyday products, whether that’s reducing plastic waste or providing energy-efficient alternatives to common household items. My business would aim to innovate while remaining accessible to communities like mine—where the cost of living often limits access to sustainable options. I’ve learned that entrepreneurship isn’t just about creating profits, it’s about creating value and offering solutions that can make people’s lives better. To me, creating a legacy isn’t just about financial success—it’s about making a lasting positive impact. My legacy will be rooted in community, in helping others, and in ensuring that the businesses I build are anchored in values of inclusivity, sustainability, and integrity. I believe true leadership comes from lifting others up and setting a standard that encourages both success and social responsibility. As someone who has experienced the challenges of growing up in a low-income household, I want to give back by mentoring others who come from similar backgrounds and helping them realize their entrepreneurial dreams. One way I’ve already started doing this is through my volunteer work with local organizations that mentor youth and provide job readiness programs. I’ve also volunteered at community events that focus on business education, helping to share knowledge on financial literacy and entrepreneurship with underrepresented groups. I plan to shine my light by being an example of someone who never gave up despite the odds. From being the first in my family to pursue higher education to balancing academics with helping out at the family restaurant, I’ve learned the value of perseverance, hard work, and empathy. My experiences have shaped me into someone who doesn’t just want to succeed for myself—I want to bring others along with me and help create a community where success is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. As I continue my education, I’m working towards gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to build a business that can thrive and adapt to the changing world. This scholarship will not only help alleviate some of the financial burden of college but will also allow me to focus more fully on the entrepreneurial journey ahead. Ultimately, I hope to create a legacy that reflects my values: one of innovation, service, and inclusivity. By pursuing entrepreneurship, I plan to build a future where I can continue giving back to my community and making a difference in the world, just as my parents did for me through their hard work and dedication.

Growing up as a first-generation, low-income student has taught me two things: dreams are free—but achieving them comes at a cost. For my parents, who run a small Chinese restaurant and work twelve hours a day, six days a week, that cost has been endless sacrifice. They didn’t grow up with the luxury of choice. I do. And that is a privilege I refuse to waste. My dream is to bridge the worlds of business and technology to create a future where innovation isn’t limited to people with access, but accessible to people with drive. I’m currently pursuing a double major in computer science and business with a concentration in accounting and finance, alongside a minor in mathematics. It’s a rigorous path, but I chose it intentionally: I want to be fluent in the language of both innovation and impact. Turning this dream into reality starts with education—but it doesn’t end there. I’ve learned to lead and adapt through extracurriculars like Masterminds, where I was team captain and led trivia competitions across schools, and varsity tennis, where I trained and competed with discipline and determination. I led a team in the Conrad Challenge, pitching a methane-absorbing machine to combat climate change. We didn’t win, but I gained experience in research, collaboration, and bouncing back from setbacks. Outside school, I help my parents run the restaurant—taking orders, managing customer service, and helping clean up after midnight. These experiences have given me a work ethic you can’t teach in a classroom. I know what it means to earn every inch of progress. That’s what keeps me motivated. My GPA reflects that drive, but it’s only a small part of the story. One day, I want to start my own company—one that develops affordable AI-powered tools to help small businesses like my family’s run more efficiently. Technology should empower, not replace, the people behind the counter. My parents’ strength and resilience inspire this dream daily. Their story is proof that success isn’t always about having the right resources—it’s about being resourceful. But I know I can’t do this alone. Scholarships like this one aren’t just financial support—they’re a statement of belief. They tell students like me that our dreams matter, even when our bank accounts say otherwise. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more on studying and building toward my goals, and less on how many shifts I need to work to afford books or rent. My dream is big. But it’s also grounded in reality—built on the late nights I spend working, the hours I spend studying, and the values I’ve inherited from a family that never stops pushing forward. I’m not just dreaming for myself—I’m dreaming for every person who’s ever felt boxed in by their circumstances. With enough grit, guidance, and support, I believe I can turn that dream into something real.

Success is such a personal thing—it looks different for everyone. For me, success is less about flashy accomplishments or a big bank account and more about finding purpose in what I do, making a meaningful impact on others, and growing through the obstacles I face. It’s about becoming the kind of person who doesn’t just take care of themselves, but also helps those around them achieve their best. Growing up, I didn’t really have the same blueprint for success as many of my classmates. My parents own a small Chinese restaurant, and I’ve seen them work harder than anyone I know. They put in twelve hours a day, six days a week, often staying late into the night to clean up and prep for the next day. They taught me that success isn’t about shortcuts or luck—it’s about relentless hard work, dedication, and the ability to push through exhaustion when you have no other choice. Seeing them sacrifice so much to give me and my family a better life has shaped my idea of what it means to be successful. For me, success isn’t handed to you; it’s earned with perseverance and grit. When I was in high school, I really leaned into this mentality. I took on leadership roles that pushed me out of my comfort zone, like being the captain of the varsity tennis team and leading the Conrad Challenge team. It wasn’t easy, but I thrived in those environments because they taught me how to manage responsibilities, motivate others, and problem-solve under pressure. I loved seeing my teams succeed, not just because I was a part of it, but because I helped guide them there. For me, that was success—not personal glory, but making sure everyone could shine. But success isn’t a straight path, and I’ve learned that the hard way in college. I’m studying computer science and business, with a concentration in accounting and finance, and honestly, computer science has been a struggle for me. There have been times when I’ve felt like giving up, like I wasn’t cut out for it. Those moments have been tough, but they’ve also been humbling and taught me that success isn’t just about being good at everything—it’s about learning to adapt, pivot, and keep going even when things don’t go as planned. I’ve realized that I’m more drawn to the business side of things. I love problem-solving, but I find more satisfaction in understanding how businesses function, especially when it comes to finances. Growing up in a small business, I’ve seen firsthand how financial mismanagement or lack of planning can make or break a business, and I want to help other small businesses like my parents’ restaurant avoid those pitfalls. I’m aiming to use what I’m learning in accounting and finance to support small businesses, maybe even help some of them turn their passion into a sustainable livelihood. For me, success would mean using my skills to make a difference in the lives of people who are working as hard as my parents have but need that extra bit of help to thrive. This scholarship would be a game-changer for me. With my family’s financial situation, college has been a huge strain. We qualify for Medicaid, free school meals, and I had fee waivers for my SAT and ACT, which helped a lot. But college is a different beast, and paying for textbooks, tuition, and everything else has been tough. This opportunity would relieve some of that burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how I’m going to make it all work financially. It would also open up more opportunities for internships and professional development that I might not be able to pursue otherwise. I’ve come a long way from my high school days, where success was about leading teams to victory or pulling off a challenging project. Now, success is more personal, more about how I can grow and use what I’ve learned to help others. Whether it’s through financial consulting, helping small businesses, or just being a reliable presence for the people in my life, I want to live in a way that makes a positive impact. That’s the version of success I’m chasing—not just reaching personal milestones, but helping others reach theirs too. In the end, success isn’t about reaching a specific destination for me. It’s about continually striving to grow, learn, and make a meaningful contribution to the world. I know that with this opportunity, I’ll be able to take the next step in that journey. It’s not always going to be easy, but I’m ready to put in the work, just like I’ve seen my parents do every day. That, to me, is what success is really about—doing the work and making a difference along the way.

From a young age, I was fascinated by the intersection of problem-solving and creativity, and this curiosity led me to pursue a degree in computer science and business with a concentration in accounting and finance. I saw technology and business not just as subjects but as tools that could shape the world around us. Growing up, I observed how financial challenges, especially in underrepresented communities like mine, often led to limited opportunities. I became determined to use my education to make a difference, both by understanding how businesses operate and by leveraging technology to address challenges that my community and others face. My passion for computer science was ignited during high school when I first learned to code. The ability to build something from nothing—whether it was a simple website or a basic algorithm—captured my imagination. I realized that technology was not just a set of technical skills, but a powerful medium for innovation and progress. However, as I delved deeper into coding, I faced struggles. Computer science didn’t always come easy to me, and there were moments of self-doubt, especially when comparing myself to peers who seemed to excel effortlessly. Despite these challenges, I didn’t give up because I knew that understanding technology would open doors to solving real-world problems, particularly those affecting underrepresented communities. At the same time, my interest in business and finance grew as I began to recognize the impact that financial literacy—or the lack thereof—had on communities of color. I saw how systemic barriers often limited access to resources, and I wanted to understand how financial systems worked so I could help others navigate these barriers. My desire to combine business and technology was solidified when I led my Conrad Challenge team, where we worked on a project to design a machine that could absorb methane gas from the atmosphere. Although we didn’t advance far in the competition, the experience taught me the value of interdisciplinary thinking and the importance of combining technology and business for sustainability and social good. Another experience that deepened my passion was my role as the captain of my varsity Masterminds team, where I led a group of students in trivia competitions against other schools. The weekly meetings and monthly matches required not only knowledge but also strategic thinking and teamwork. This leadership role helped me understand the importance of collaboration and the application of knowledge in different contexts—skills that I now see as critical in both business and technology. As a first-generation college student and a person of color, I am motivated by the disparities I’ve seen in access to education and opportunities. I know how isolating it can feel to navigate spaces where there are few mentors who look like you or share similar experiences. But I also know that by pushing forward and pursuing my goals, I can help create a more inclusive future for others who follow. I want to drive positive change in the workforce, particularly in industries where people from BIPOC communities are underrepresented. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me continue my education and pursue my passion for using business and technology to foster inclusive progress. It would allow me to focus more on my studies, gain practical experience, and eventually give back to the communities that inspired me to pursue this path in the first place.

I decided to pursue a degree in computer science because of my passion for problem-solving and creating technology that can make a real difference in the world. Growing up, I was always fascinated by how technology could be used to tackle complex issues, from food security to climate change. I see computer science as a powerful tool that can help find solutions to pressing global challenges. Whether it’s through developing software to increase accessibility, using data to drive decisions, or creating systems that can improve resource distribution, I know that the skills I’m gaining will enable me to make a meaningful impact. My goal is to use my knowledge of technology to help communities, especially those facing poverty and marginalization, by creating solutions that are both innovative and sustainable. Working while in school has been a crucial part of my college experience. As a first-generation college student, I’ve always known that financial independence would be important in reaching my academic and career goals. To support myself, I work part-time while studying full-time, which has helped me develop a strong work ethic and valuable time-management skills. Juggling schoolwork with a job has taught me how to prioritize my responsibilities, manage my time effectively, and stay organized. However, balancing both has also been challenging at times. The stress of managing work schedules while meeting academic deadlines can be overwhelming, and it’s often hard to find time for personal care or socializing. Despite these challenges, the experience has made me more resilient and adaptable. While working has been a significant challenge, it has also motivated me to work harder and persevere. My job has helped me gain a sense of independence and the ability to navigate difficult situations, which I know will serve me well in both my career and personal life. It has also given me a greater appreciation for the value of education. I’m more determined than ever to succeed because I see the direct connection between my education and the future opportunities it will provide. The support I receive from scholarships like this one would ease some of the financial pressure, allowing me to focus more on my studies and fully immerse myself in the learning process. Looking ahead, I plan to use the knowledge and skills I acquire in my computer science program to contribute to projects and initiatives that address societal challenges. I want to develop technology that improves the lives of underserved communities by addressing issues such as food security, access to education, and healthcare. Through my work, I aim to create equitable and sustainable solutions that will empower people and help break the cycle of poverty. Working while in school has taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, and I am determined to use these lessons to achieve my goals and make a positive impact on the world.

I’ve always been passionate about finding solutions to real-world problems, particularly those that impact communities in meaningful ways. As a first-generation student, I have witnessed the challenges my family and others in my community have faced, especially when it comes to affordable housing. Growing up, I saw the disparities in access to safe, stable housing, and the effects that homelessness and gentrification have on marginalized populations. These experiences have shaped my desire to pursue a career that can help create equitable, sustainable urban environments. I am currently studying Business Administration and have become deeply interested in urban planning and economics as powerful tools for change. I’ve seen firsthand how urban areas can either be places of opportunity or areas where communities are left behind. Whether it's through the rising costs of housing pushing out long-time residents or the lack of affordable housing options leading to homelessness, these issues are not just statistics—they affect real lives. That’s why I’ve decided to focus my efforts on finding solutions to these challenges, particularly homelessness, gentrification, and the need for affordable, sustainable housing. I’ve actively sought out opportunities to gain experience and learn more about the issues at the heart of urban planning and economics. For instance, I have volunteered with local organizations that work to provide housing support to underserved communities, where I’ve seen the positive impact that advocacy and community support can have. I’ve also participated in leadership roles, such as [insert relevant leadership role], where I’ve been able to work on projects that address sustainability, community development, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can thrive. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how systemic issues affect communities and have inspired me to continue working toward solutions that will create more equitable urban spaces. What drives my passion for urban planning and economics is the belief that cities should be places where everyone has the opportunity to live and grow. Homelessness, gentrification, and the lack of affordable housing aren’t just issues that need policy changes—they require innovative solutions that involve the voices and perspectives of the people they affect. I am motivated to be part of a movement that works toward policy reforms, community-driven development, and the creation of affordable housing that fosters sustainability and social equity. My goal is to help design cities that not only meet the needs of today’s population but also create inclusive, long-lasting solutions for future generations. Through a career in urban planning and economics, I hope to advocate for policies that reduce the impact of gentrification, provide more affordable housing options, and promote sustainability in urban development. I’m passionate about this work because I believe in creating cities where everyone, regardless of background or income, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. It’s this vision that motivates me to continue my education and pursue a career that will allow me to make a lasting impact in creating equitable and sustainable urban environments.

Adversity has been a defining factor in my journey, shaping me into a resilient and determined individual. One of the most challenging experiences I have faced was navigating my academic and leadership responsibilities while overcoming personal loss. Recently, I lost my grandfather on my mother’s side, a man who played an instrumental role in my upbringing. His unwavering belief in education and hard work was a guiding force in my life, and his passing was an emotional hardship that tested my ability to persevere. At the time, I was balancing rigorous coursework in business administration and computer science, leadership roles in various extracurricular activities, and my commitment to community service. The weight of grief made it difficult to focus, yet I knew my grandfather would have wanted me to continue striving for excellence. Instead of allowing my loss to deter me, I turned my grief into motivation, using his legacy as a reminder of why I am passionate about education and service. Through this experience, I learned the importance of resilience and leaning on a strong support system. I sought solace in my academic mentors, peers, and community, realizing that adversity is not meant to be faced alone. This challenge reinforced my belief in the power of education as a means of empowerment. It also deepened my commitment to giving back, as I recognize that many students face personal hardships that threaten their ability to succeed. For years, I have been actively involved in community service, volunteering at hospitals, participating in hackathons for social good, and engaging in mentorship programs that support underserved students. These experiences have reinforced my passion for using technology and business solutions to drive social impact. Whether through financial literacy programs, educational initiatives, or technological advancements, I want to ensure that others have the resources and support they need to overcome obstacles. To someone facing adversity, my advice would be this: hardships do not define you—how you respond to them does. It is essential to acknowledge your struggles, seek support, and use them as fuel to propel you forward. Life’s greatest challenges often teach the most valuable lessons, and with perseverance, they can shape you into a stronger and more compassionate individual. This scholarship would not only support my education but also allow me to continue serving my community. Just as Simon M. Humphrey believed in providing opportunities for others, I aspire to use my knowledge and experiences to uplift those who face adversity, ensuring that education remains an accessible and transformative force for all.

My passion for business administration and computer science, with a concentration in accounting and finance, stems from a lifelong curiosity about problem-solving and efficiency. Growing up, I was always drawn to numbers and patterns, fascinated by the way small decisions could lead to large-scale financial impacts. However, it wasn’t until a particular experience during high school that I truly realized the power of combining business and technology to drive innovation. During my junior year, I participated in a financial literacy workshop where we were given the task of managing a simulated company’s budget. While many of my peers focused on traditional accounting methods, I became intrigued by how technology could streamline financial decision-making. I started exploring data analytics, automation, and predictive modeling, realizing how software could revolutionize the way businesses manage their finances. This experience ignited my interest in business technology, leading me to further explore coding, financial modeling, and digital transformation strategies. At the same time, my love for mathematics strengthened my problem-solving skills, helping me analyze trends and develop logical solutions. I realized that finance is more than just numbers—it is about making informed, strategic decisions that can impact businesses, communities, and economies. By combining my studies in business administration, computer science, and finance, I aim to develop technological solutions that improve financial accessibility, helping individuals and businesses make data-driven decisions with confidence. This scholarship will support my education by providing the necessary resources to further explore my passion for business and technology. Just as Angelia Zeigler Gibbs believed in the power of reading to open doors, I believe that knowledge in finance and technology can empower individuals to take control of their futures. Through my studies, I hope to bridge the gap between business and technology, ensuring that financial systems become more efficient, accessible, and innovative for future generations.

My athletic journey has been one of perseverance, leadership, and personal growth. As the captain of my varsity girls' tennis team, I experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with being an athlete. Tennis is an individual sport in many ways, but as a team captain, I learned that true success is not just about personal victories—it is about uplifting others, fostering a sense of unity, and leading by example. When I first joined the team, I was eager to compete but had yet to develop the confidence to lead. I was faced with intense matches, grueling practices, and moments of self-doubt. However, through dedication and resilience, I transformed from a player who simply wanted to improve her game into a leader who wanted to inspire her teammates. I learned that success is not always measured by wins and losses but by the ability to push through adversity, support others, and cultivate a positive team culture. One of the most valuable lessons athletics has taught me is the power of discipline and perseverance. There were times when I felt physically and mentally exhausted, yet I knew that growth only came through pushing past my limits. The countless hours of practice, the commitment to refining my technique, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks shaped my work ethic both on and off the court. These same principles have carried over into my academic and professional pursuits, reinforcing the idea that success is built on consistency, resilience, and an unwavering belief in oneself. Beyond my own development, my athletic journey has also taught me the importance of giving back and making an impact on others. As a leader, I took it upon myself to mentor younger teammates, helping them build their confidence and improve their skills. I found joy in seeing them grow—not just as players, but as individuals who learned to believe in their potential. This experience reinforced my desire to continue making a difference in my community by supporting others in their own journeys. With this scholarship, I will continue to integrate the lessons I have learned as an athlete into my future endeavors. I plan to use my education in computer science s to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between technology and accessibility, particularly for underrepresented communities. Just as my athletic experience has taught me the value of teamwork and perseverance, I want to apply these principles to empower others—whether through mentorship, community engagement, or technological advancements that create opportunities for those in need. Coach Ken Landry’s legacy of dedication and perseverance is one that resonates deeply with me. His impact on his athletes extended far beyond the track, and I aspire to have a similar influence in my own way. Whether through athletics, academics, or leadership, I will continue to inspire others, uplift my community, and embody the same values of resilience and dedication that shaped my athletic journey.

I am planning to study business administration, with a focus on entrepreneurship. My decision to pursue this field stems from my deep interest in business development and my desire to learn the skills necessary to create and manage a successful company. As someone who is passionate about problem-solving and creating value, I believe that a strong foundation in business will provide me with the tools and knowledge I need to turn innovative ideas into tangible ventures. I want to understand the intricacies of business operations, finance, marketing, and leadership to be well-prepared for the challenges of starting and growing a business. I have always been drawn to the idea of entrepreneurship. Growing up, I watched my parents navigate the challenges of running a small business, and I admired their resilience, creativity, and ability to adapt. I saw firsthand how they took calculated risks and put in the hard work necessary to build something from the ground up. This inspired me to pursue a career where I could have the same level of autonomy and control, but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on my community. Entrepreneurship allows me to not only be my own boss but also to create opportunities for others, drive innovation, and contribute to the economy in a positive way. I believe I will be successful in my entrepreneurial endeavors because I possess a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a mindset focused on continuous learning. I understand that success in business often requires perseverance and the ability to navigate uncertainty, and I am ready to embrace these challenges. I have always been the type of person who is proactive in seeking solutions, whether it’s through networking, learning new skills, or finding creative ways to solve problems. I am also not afraid to fail because I view failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Many successful entrepreneurs fail multiple times before finding success, and I am prepared to face setbacks and continue moving forward. Additionally, I recognize the importance of surrounding myself with a supportive network, whether it’s mentors, business partners, or a team of motivated individuals. I am committed to building a business that values collaboration, integrity, and social responsibility. These values will guide me in creating a company that not only achieves financial success but also makes a positive impact on its employees, customers, and community. To me, a successful life is one that is balanced and fulfilling. It means achieving personal goals, contributing to the well-being of others, and continuously growing both professionally and personally. Success is not just about financial achievement but about creating a lasting impact, pursuing passion-driven work, and having the freedom to lead a life that aligns with my values and aspirations. My entrepreneurial journey will not only be about building a successful business but also about fostering a life that reflects my commitment to growth, contribution, and resilience. In conclusion, my decision to study business and pursue an entrepreneurial career is driven by my passion for creating value, my experiences growing up around small businesses, and my desire to make a meaningful impact. I believe that my strong work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to learn will help me overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve success in my business ventures.

My parents’ journey to the United States is a testament to their resilience, hard work, and determination. They immigrated from China with very little, seeking a better life and opportunities for their future children. My father worked long hours in construction, while my mother worked multiple jobs in the restaurant industry. Neither of them had formal education beyond elementary school, yet they knew that education was the key to success in America. Their sacrifices have shaped who I am today, and their work ethic has been the foundation for my academic and professional ambitions. Growing up, I witnessed my parents’ tireless work ethic. They worked long hours, often with little rest, to provide for our family. My father’s job in construction often meant he would come home exhausted, his hands rough from hard labor. Despite the physical toll of his work, he never complained. My mother, who worked in the restaurant industry, would often come home late at night after her shifts, yet she would still find time to help me with my studies or make sure I had everything I needed for school. Even though they faced financial struggles and language barriers, they never let these obstacles stop them. Instead, they taught me the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and the value of hard work. Their sacrifices didn’t go unnoticed. Despite not having a formal education, they instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of knowledge and the importance of making the most of every opportunity. They encouraged me to focus on my studies, knowing that education was the path to a brighter future. As a result, I’ve always strived for academic excellence. Their perseverance inspired me to push through challenges, whether it was overcoming language barriers in my own early education or tackling difficult subjects later on. I watched as they navigated challenges, and I learned from them that no setback is permanent if you are willing to put in the work to overcome it. Today, I am pursuing a degree in business, and my parents’ work ethic continues to guide me. Their sacrifices drive me to excel and use the opportunities I have to create a better future, not only for myself but for my family as well. The values they instilled in me—resilience, responsibility, and the importance of hard work—are the same values I carry with me as I work toward my academic and professional goals. I aspire to build a career that will allow me to support my parents and contribute to the community that helped shape who I am today. In conclusion, my parents’ story has had a profound impact on shaping my character and my drive for success. They showed me through their actions that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance, and I am determined to carry that legacy forward as I pursue my education and career in business.

One of my all-time favorite book-to-film adaptations is The Lord of the Rings trilogy, directed by Peter Jackson. Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy series, these films left an indelible mark on my imagination and forever altered how I perceive both books and movies. The sheer scale of the films, the incredible performances, and the stunning visuals captivated me in ways that only few adaptations manage to do. When I first read The Lord of the Rings as a teenager, I was enthralled by Tolkien’s richly detailed world and the deep, philosophical themes woven into the narrative. The book is dense with history, language, and culture, making Middle-Earth feel like a fully realized world. I remember thinking that no film could ever do such a complex and magical world justice. When the movies were released, I was skeptical at first, worried that the film adaptations would lose the depth of the original material. However, when I watched them, I was blown away by how Jackson and his team not only stayed true to the essence of the books but elevated them to new heights. What stands out to me the most about The Lord of the Rings films is how they brought Tolkien’s world to life in a way that was both faithful to the books and visually spectacular. The sweeping landscapes of New Zealand, which served as the perfect backdrop for Middle-Earth, are now forever etched in my mind. I remember being in awe of how each setting – from the peaceful Shire to the dark, ominous Mordor – was depicted with such attention to detail. The films didn’t just recreate the settings from the books; they enhanced them, giving them texture and depth that helped me better understand the world I had spent so much time reading about. The performances in the films also deserve special mention. The cast’s portrayal of iconic characters like Frodo, Aragorn, and Gandalf brought these literary figures to life in a way that felt incredibly real. Elijah Wood’s portrayal of Frodo Baggins, in particular, is a standout. He perfectly captured Frodo’s innocence, bravery, and inner turmoil as he navigated the complexities of his journey. Viggo Mortensen’s Aragorn was the perfect blend of strength and vulnerability, and Ian McKellen’s Gandalf was wise and charismatic in all the right ways. These performances were not only faithful to the characters in the book but infused them with a new layer of emotional depth. One element of the films that I found particularly powerful was the use of music. Howard Shore’s score is masterful, with each piece carefully composed to reflect the themes of the story. The music intensified the emotional impact of the scenes and added a layer of grandeur to the overall experience. The iconic “Concerning Hobbits” theme, for example, transports me straight to the Shire every time I hear it. It’s a melody that evokes the warmth and simplicity of the Hobbits’ lives, contrasting so beautifully with the darker, more epic themes of the series. The films also manage to capture the essence of the book’s deeper messages – such as the importance of friendship, sacrifice, and the corrupting power of power itself. While some elements of the books had to be condensed or altered for the films, I felt that the heart of the story remained intact. Jackson didn’t just make a film adaptation; he created a cinematic experience that honored Tolkien’s vision while introducing new audiences to the story’s timeless themes.

Helping others reach their full potential has been a guiding principle in my life, and I have made it a personal mission to empower those around me through mentorship, volunteering, and leadership. Growing up in a family of first-generation immigrants, I witnessed my parents' tireless work ethic and the selflessness they displayed as they helped their community members adjust to a new country. This inspired me to take an active role in helping others and to develop skills that would enable me to support people in achieving their goals. One of the key ways I have nurtured this passion is through my involvement in community service and leadership positions. As a volunteer at Rochester Regional Health, I had the opportunity to assist patients and families in navigating the hospital system. I quickly learned the importance of empathy and communication when working with people facing challenges. By providing emotional support, translating information, and helping patients feel more at ease, I contributed to improving their overall experience. This experience reinforced the idea that sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can have the greatest impact on someone's well-being. My role as a student leader has also helped me hone my skills in helping others reach their best potential. As the president of the Masterminds Club, I was responsible for organizing weekly study sessions, helping peers prepare for competitions, and fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. I realized that leadership is not just about guiding others but also about empowering individuals to discover their strengths. By encouraging my peers to contribute their ideas and strategies during discussions, I created a space where everyone felt valued and capable. This collaborative approach translated into team success, but more importantly, it helped each member grow in confidence. Additionally, my time as the class treasurer allowed me to take on leadership roles in planning fundraising events that would benefit the student body. I found great fulfillment in organizing activities that united our community for a common cause, raising money for class events and activities. Through these experiences, I developed strong organizational and communication skills, which have allowed me to help others effectively while leading initiatives that positively impact the community. Mentoring has also been an essential part of my journey to helping others unlock their potential. I’ve participated in the Girls Who Code program, where I shared my coding knowledge with younger girls interested in computer science. Through this mentorship, I saw the incredible power of encouragement and guidance in helping others believe in their abilities. Seeing the girls gain confidence in their skills and pursue their interests was one of the most rewarding experiences, and it solidified my passion for helping others break down barriers to success. Ultimately, I have made it my purpose to help others through both formal and informal roles, using my skills and experiences to lift people up. I believe that by helping others achieve their goals, we create a ripple effect of positive change. Whether it’s through volunteering, mentorship, or leadership, I am committed to empowering individuals to unlock their potential, and I will continue to make this my passion as I grow both personally and professionally.

My chosen field of interest is cybersecurity and data science, with a particular focus on ethical technology. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on digital systems, it is crucial that these technologies are secure, unbiased, and accessible to all. This belief stems from my personal experiences growing up in a low-income, first-generation immigrant family, where I witnessed firsthand how lack of access to technology and information can limit opportunities. I’ve chosen this field because I want to ensure that technology is inclusive and serves all communities equitably, especially those who are often marginalized. I am passionate about using cybersecurity to build secure, ethical systems that protect individuals’ data and privacy. Additionally, I want to use data science to identify and address social inequities, ensuring that technology is not only safe but also fair. One of my current research projects focuses on predicting housing instability using public data, with the goal of identifying patterns that can help policymakers take action before instability escalates into homelessness. This project reflects my desire to apply my technical skills in a way that makes a real difference in people’s lives. My personal motivations stem from my upbringing, where I saw my parents struggle to navigate the digital world while running a small business. Their experience, along with my own challenges as a young student trying to access educational resources, instilled in me a deep appreciation for the role technology plays in shaping opportunities. I want to create systems that are ethical and accessible, so that others do not face the same barriers to information and technology that I encountered. My long-term goal is to work in the tech industry, contributing to the development of secure, bias-free digital systems that protect individuals' privacy while promoting inclusion. I also aim to mentor young women in STEM, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to encourage more diversity in the tech field. I believe that a diverse group of professionals is essential for creating ethical and innovative technology that benefits everyone. Through my work in cybersecurity and data science, I hope to make a meaningful impact by ensuring that technological advancements are not only innovative but also ethical and inclusive. My personal journey, coupled with my determination to create positive change, fuels my professional passion and will guide me as I pursue my dreams in this field.

My name is Sandy Chi, and I am an undergraduate student with a passion for computer science, cybersecurity, and data science. Coming from a low-income background, I’ve learned to balance academic responsibilities with the financial struggles my family faces. As a first-generation college student, I’ve always been driven to pursue higher education, not only to better my own life but to make a difference in my community. My experiences, both personal and academic, have shaped me into a hardworking and dedicated student who values knowledge, community, and self-improvement. This scholarship would have a profound impact on my ability to continue my studies. College tuition is a significant financial burden, and any assistance would help me stay focused on my education without the constant stress of financial limitations. With this scholarship, I could allocate more time to my coursework and research rather than having to balance multiple jobs to cover my tuition and living expenses. Ultimately, this support would allow me to fully immerse myself in my studies and research projects, helping me move closer to my long-term career goals. My academic and career goals are centered around cybersecurity and ethics in technology. I am currently working on a research project focused on predicting housing instability using public data, and I aspire to continue my studies in cybersecurity, ensuring that technological advancements are ethical and inclusive. In the future, I aim to work in the tech industry to create secure, bias-free systems that benefit society as a whole. I strongly believe that a diverse group of computer scientists is essential to building ethical and impactful technology, and I hope to contribute to this vision through my career. I have always been involved in my community in meaningful ways. As a member of Girls Who Code and Women Interdisciplinary Society of Entrepreneurship (WISE), I mentor young girls interested in technology, encouraging them to pursue STEM fields. I’ve also served as the class treasurer, leading fundraising events that brought our school community together. Additionally, I volunteer at Rochester Regional Health, where I support patients and staff, giving back to a community that has supported me in countless ways. Failure is a part of life, and one of my most impactful experiences came during a hackathon where my team and I failed to complete a project within the given time frame. At first, I felt disappointed, but it taught me the importance of perseverance and teamwork. We didn’t meet the deadline, but I learned how to communicate better with my teammates and manage time more effectively under pressure. It was a failure that turned into a valuable learning experience, helping me approach future projects with greater resilience and adaptability. My greatest strengths are my work ethic, determination, and empathy. I am driven to work hard in everything I do, whether it’s academics, research, or community service. I believe in giving my all and following through on my commitments. My determination helps me overcome challenges, whether financial or academic, and my empathy allows me to connect with others in a meaningful way. These qualities will continue to guide me as I pursue my education and work toward creating positive change in the tech industry and beyond. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support to continue my education and pursue my dreams. I am committed to using my knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact in my community, and this opportunity would be an important step in helping me reach that goal.

My pro-life position has been shaped by a combination of personal experiences, moral convictions, and a desire to see every human life valued and protected. Growing up in a family that emphasized empathy and responsibility, I was taught to see the intrinsic worth of every person, regardless of their circumstances. This principle became even more real to me when I volunteered at a crisis pregnancy center during high school. Working with women facing unplanned pregnancies opened my eyes to the challenges they face, but also to the incredible courage and strength they display. It also reinforced my belief that the unborn are vulnerable lives that deserve protection and advocacy. One of the most defining moments in my pro-life journey occurred during a community event where I had the opportunity to listen to a speaker who was conceived in rape. Her testimony was a powerful reminder that the value of life is not determined by the circumstances of conception. Her story challenged me to think deeply about how society often assigns value to individuals based on convenience or perceived worth, rather than recognizing the inherent dignity of every human being. This experience strengthened my resolve to speak out for the voiceless and to promote a culture that values life at all stages. In college, I became involved with a campus pro-life organization where I’ve had the privilege of engaging in meaningful conversations with people who hold differing views. These dialogues have taught me the importance of approaching the topic with compassion and data-driven arguments. For example, I’ve used research from embryology and peer-reviewed studies to highlight the biological evidence that human life begins at conception. Sharing these facts has helped bridge the gap between emotional responses and scientific understanding, fostering more productive discussions. Beyond conversations, my pro-life advocacy has included organizing donation drives for local pregnancy resource centers, hosting educational events on fetal development, and volunteering at adoption agencies. I believe that being pro-life is not just about opposing abortion but also about providing support and solutions for women and families in difficult situations. Through these activities, I’ve seen firsthand how community support can empower women to choose life. Looking forward, I plan to continue promoting the value and dignity of all human beings through a combination of advocacy, education, and service. I’m working on a project to create a digital resource platform that connects pregnant women with local services, such as housing, healthcare, and counseling. Additionally, I want to use my background in public speaking to share stories and data that emphasize the humanity of the unborn and the importance of protecting life at all stages. My goal is to challenge societal norms that devalue life and to inspire others to see the beauty and potential in every human being. Ultimately, my pro-life position is rooted in a belief that life is a gift, and every individual has inherent worth. By combining compassionate action with thoughtful dialogue, I hope to create a world where the dignity of all human beings, especially the unborn, is recognized and celebrated.

From the vastness of space to the intricacies of the human mind, the universe holds endless mysteries, and the pursuit of understanding these complexities has always fascinated me. As a first-generation college student from a low-income immigrant family, my journey toward education has not been a straightforward one, but it has been fueled by a deep curiosity about the world and how it works. I believe that understanding the universe is not just about answering big questions; it’s about improving how we live, connect, and thrive as a species. This is why I’m driven to pursue computer science and use technology to address some of the most pressing challenges in our world today, especially in underserved communities. Growing up, I didn’t always have access to the resources or opportunities that many of my peers took for granted. My parents, who immigrated to the U.S. with limited formal education, worked tirelessly to provide for our family. Watching their perseverance instilled in me a strong work ethic, but it also made me acutely aware of the barriers that low-income and first-generation students face in accessing higher education and opportunities for intellectual growth. Despite these challenges, I was always drawn to subjects that allowed me to explore the unknown. Whether it was spending late nights reading about how artificial intelligence can transform industries or participating in coding competitions to solve real-world problems, my passion for understanding and improving the world around me has only grown stronger. The field of computer science, in particular, has opened my eyes to the limitless potential of technology to solve complex problems. I’ve participated in hackathons, coding boot camps, and research projects focused on using data to address issues such as food insecurity and healthcare access. These experiences have taught me that while the universe may be extraordinarily complex, human ingenuity allows us to tackle these challenges in meaningful ways. Through technology, we can analyze patterns, optimize processes, and create solutions that have real-world impact. For me, understanding the universe isn’t just a theoretical pursuit—it’s about applying knowledge to make a difference. However, I recognize that my journey is only beginning. As I continue my education, I am eager to delve deeper into the intersection of technology, ethics, and social justice. I want to explore how emerging technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence can be harnessed to create more equitable societies. For instance, I’m particularly interested in how data-driven insights can help address systemic issues such as inequality in education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. I believe that by combining my passion for technology with a commitment to social good, I can contribute to building a better, more just world. But beyond my personal aspirations, I also feel a responsibility to lift up others along the way. As someone who has benefited from mentorship and support in navigating the challenges of being a first-generation college student, I am committed to giving back to my community. I want to mentor other young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to help them overcome the barriers that I’ve faced. I believe that diversity of thought and experience is crucial to advancing our understanding of the universe, and it is essential that we create spaces where all voices can contribute to this quest for knowledge. The Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship represents an incredible opportunity to support individuals like me who are passionate about understanding the world and using that knowledge to create positive change. If awarded this scholarship, I would use it to further my education in computer science, where I plan to focus on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and data science. This scholarship would not only relieve some of the financial burden of attending college but also allow me to focus more on my studies and research, ultimately enabling me to contribute more meaningfully to my field and my community. In conclusion, the universe may be extraordinarily complex, but it is through the pursuit of knowledge, curiosity, and a commitment to improving the world around us that we can make sense of it. My passion for understanding how technology can address societal challenges, combined with my personal experiences as a first-generation student from an underrepresented community, fuels my desire to contribute to this larger quest. With the support of the Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship, I hope to continue this journey, not just for myself, but for the many others who will benefit from the insights and innovations that come from asking—and answering—the big questions.

My experience with mental health has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations, shaping me into someone who values resilience, empathy, and purpose in every aspect of life. Mental health challenges, whether my own or those of people close to me, have led me to reflect deeply on how I interact with the world and have provided insights that continue to guide my decisions and shape my goals. Growing up, I faced various obstacles that made me aware of the complexity and importance of mental health early on. Navigating the pressure of academic excellence, personal responsibilities, and societal expectations was challenging. At times, I felt overwhelmed by the weight of balancing my aspirations with my personal well-being. This experience forced me to develop coping mechanisms, seek help, and learn to be more compassionate toward myself. From a young age, I struggled with understanding and processing my emotions. As a first-generation student coming from a low-income background, the pressure to succeed was immense. My family’s financial struggles made me feel that failure was not an option, and this led to a mindset where I equated my worth with my academic performance. I would often push myself to the limit, taking on as many responsibilities as I could in hopes of achieving perfection in every area of my life. This approach led to burnout, anxiety, and stress, which eventually took a toll on my mental health. However, through those challenging experiences, I learned the importance of self-awareness and seeking help when needed. Learning to prioritize my mental well-being became essential, and it influenced my belief that success is not just about achieving external goals, but about maintaining balance and ensuring emotional and psychological health. This realization has shifted my understanding of what it means to succeed. Instead of chasing perfection, I now focus on doing my best while respecting my own boundaries and taking care of my mental health. This shift in perspective has greatly impacted my relationships. Where once I may have viewed emotional vulnerability as a weakness, I now see it as a strength. I have come to understand the importance of open communication and emotional support in relationships, whether they are familial, platonic, or professional. Mental health struggles have taught me to be more empathetic toward others, recognizing that everyone is fighting battles we may not see. I actively strive to create spaces where those around me feel comfortable discussing their challenges, without fear of judgment. This openness has fostered stronger and more authentic connections in my life. I’ve found that when people feel seen and supported, they thrive—and that’s something I aim to bring into all my relationships. Moreover, my experience with mental health has also shaped my career aspirations, particularly in how I approach problem-solving and innovation in the field of computer science. Having experienced how overwhelming life can feel when mental health is neglected, I have become passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems that affect people's well-being. For instance, I see the potential for technological solutions to assist with mental health, whether through apps that provide emotional support, AI-driven therapy tools, or systems that improve access to mental health services for underserved communities. These innovations could make it easier for individuals to manage their mental health, access resources, and feel less isolated in their struggles. As someone pursuing a career in software development, I want to apply my skills to create systems that improve lives, especially in areas like mental health and food security. I have always been passionate about solving problems, and my journey with mental health has made me more attuned to the kinds of problems that truly need attention. It has also instilled in me a desire to make my work meaningful by prioritizing projects that have a tangible, positive impact on people's lives. The desire to help others manage their well-being aligns with my long-term goal of building technology that not only advances industries but also supports human flourishing. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has profoundly influenced how I view the world, shaping my beliefs, strengthening my relationships, and guiding my career aspirations. I have learned to prioritize balance and well-being, value emotional vulnerability as a strength, and integrate empathy into my interactions with others. As I continue on my journey, I aspire to use my career in technology to address some of the pressing issues that affect mental and emotional health, contributing to a world where technology and compassion go hand in hand.

One technology that inspires me is computer science, particularly its potential to address global challenges like food security. With the world’s population growing and agricultural resources strained, the ability of computer science to improve crop yields and sustainability is transformative. By analyzing real-time data about soil conditions, air quality, and crop health, we can ensure optimal growing conditions, reduce waste, and increase the nutritional value of the food produced. This can play a vital role in reducing hunger and ensuring that people around the globe have access to one of life's basic necessities: food. Computer science is more than just solving problems; it’s a tool to make life better for all. Its versatility allows for innovations across various sectors, and food security is just one of many issues it can address. For instance, by creating software that integrates with agricultural technologies, farmers can gain better insights into planting cycles, predict weather patterns, and monitor resource consumption. This makes farming more efficient and eco-friendly, ultimately contributing to global sustainability goals. Moreover, technology can ensure that harvested crops are free from pollutants and are rich in nutrients, which could improve public health outcomes. The scalability of such innovations—from local farming communities to large agricultural enterprises—ensures that its positive impact can be far-reaching. Being a first-generation student passionate about computer science, I am inspired by how technology can be used to solve real-world problems. By continuously learning and staying updated with advancements, I aim to leverage my skills to contribute toward making the world a better, more sustainable place.

Growing up in a low-income family, my life has been shaped by the financial challenges my parents and I have faced. My parents, having only completed a few years of grade school before working on their families’ farm, immigrated to the U.S. to give me a better life. Watching them struggle to learn English while working long hours to provide for us instilled in me a deep appreciation for education and a strong work ethic. As a young child, I was placed in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes to improve my language skills, and that was a turning point. Once I began to understand English, my world opened up, and I became passionate about learning. This passion has stayed with me throughout my academic career, propelling me to excel despite adversity. From the earliest days, I knew my family was different in terms of financial circumstances. We qualified for Medicaid, fee waivers for the SAT and ACT, and free school meals. But these hardships never defined me. Instead, they fueled my determination to succeed. I set my sights on becoming the first in my family to attend college, a goal that motivated me to work hard academically. As a result, I was honored to graduate as salutatorian of my class and become a member of the National Honor Society. Beyond academics, I have been deeply involved in extracurricular activities, including leadership roles that allowed me to develop essential skills like communication, organization, and teamwork. As class treasurer, I organized successful fundraising events, which gave me hands-on experience with planning and problem-solving in fast-paced environments. I also had the opportunity to speak at Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school, further enhancing my public speaking and leadership abilities. Despite the financial challenges we faced, my parents’ sacrifices instilled in me the importance of education. Their dedication to ensuring I attended school every day and focused on my studies became the foundation of my work ethic. This upbringing also sparked my interest in STEM, particularly in computer science. What started as a whim—joining my school’s Student DELL Helpdesk—soon became a passion. I earned my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021 and immersed myself in the world of technology. The beauty of mathematics has always fascinated me, and this interest naturally extended into computer science. The logic and problem-solving aspects of coding, coupled with the endless possibilities it offers, continue to captivate me. I have participated in several hackathons, coding programs, and internships, all of which solidified my desire to become a software developer. Through these experiences, I’ve realized how critical technology is in addressing real-world problems, particularly in areas like food security, which is an issue close to my heart. Growing up in a family that ran a restaurant taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, and time management. I spent countless hours after school, on weekends, and during the summer helping my parents manage their restaurant. This experience gave me a unique perspective on how businesses operate and furthered my understanding of customer service. These skills will be invaluable as I pursue a career in computer science, particularly when working on projects that require collaboration, problem-solving, and the ability to listen and adapt to user needs. My long-term goal is to apply my computer science knowledge to solve global issues, such as food security. I am particularly interested in developing programs that can analyze soil and air quality, providing real-time information to improve agricultural yields. By integrating technology with agricultural practices, we can ensure that crops are harvested at their peak, maximizing both yield and nutritional value. This work is not just theoretical; it’s a real-world application that can help feed communities and improve lives. My dream is to use technology to ensure that no one has to go hungry—a mission I believe is achievable through innovation and collaboration in the STEM field. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I am committed to fostering diversity in the tech industry. I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by inspiring women, and now I want to pay that forward. My goal is to mentor other young women and non-binary people who are interested in technology, helping them overcome the barriers they might face in a field that still lacks gender diversity. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to encourage others to pursue their passions in STEM, just as I have. The adversity I’ve faced, from financial hardship to the challenges of being a first-generation student, has only strengthened my resolve. I am passionate about computer science because I see its potential to solve problems and improve lives. With the help of this scholarship, I will continue to pursue my education, gain practical experience, and work toward my goal of making a meaningful impact on the world. Whether it’s through addressing food security or empowering others in the tech community, I am determined to use my skills to create positive change. In conclusion, my journey has been shaped by resilience, hard work, and a passion for learning. Overcoming adversity has not been easy, but it has prepared me to face future challenges with confidence. As I move forward in my academic and professional career, I will remain focused on my goals, determined to succeed, and committed to using my skills for the greater good.

To make mental health care more affordable and accessible, I would leverage my background in technology and passion for problem-solving to develop innovative digital platforms for mental health services. By creating user-friendly apps and online tools, individuals could easily access resources like therapy sessions, mindfulness exercises, and peer support groups, all at a reduced cost. This approach would remove barriers like high costs and geographic limitations, making mental health support available to a broader audience. I also believe in the power of community. By encouraging collaboration between tech professionals, healthcare providers, and nonprofits, we can create a network that fosters shared knowledge and support. This would not only drive down the costs of services but also ensure culturally competent care is accessible to everyone. Through these initiatives, my contribution would help close the gap in mental health care accessibility and ensure that those in need can receive the help they deserve, regardless of their financial situation or location.

Bioinformatics has become a dynamic field combining biology, computer science, and data analysis to solve complex biological problems. My journey into bioinformatics stems from my long-standing interest in both the life sciences and technology. As someone passionate about problem-solving and fascinated by biology's underlying mechanisms, bioinformatics presented itself as the perfect avenue to merge my interests into a meaningful career path. My academic foundation has been shaped by a deep-seated curiosity for knowledge, a trait instilled in me since childhood by my parents' educational sacrifices. Despite their limited formal education, they taught me the value of continuous learning, perseverance, and the importance of contributing to one’s community. This mindset fueled my desire to excel in school, eventually leading me to graduate as salutatorian and participate in various extracurricular activities, including computer science-related endeavors. My bioinformatics experience has been enriched through several hands-on projects and internships. These experiences have allowed me to develop proficiency in using computational tools to analyze biological data, which is essential in this field. One of my most rewarding projects involved developing software to analyze soil characteristics for crop yield improvement. This interdisciplinary project combined programming, data analysis, and environmental science to provide real-time data for optimizing agricultural productivity. The project taught me the potential of bioinformatics to solve real-world issues like food security—a topic I am deeply passionate about. Furthermore, my involvement in hackathons and coding programs has honed my skills in various programming languages and data analysis techniques, all of which are crucial for bioinformatics research. From writing algorithms that predict protein structures to analyzing genomic data, my technical background continues to grow. Additionally, I have taken on leadership roles in various STEM initiatives, including being a part of Girls Who Code. This involvement has empowered me to support other women entering the tech field, and I hope to continue fostering a more inclusive bioinformatics community. Looking ahead, my career goals in bioinformatics are centered around using computational biology to address global health and environmental challenges. Specifically, I am interested in genomic medicine and personalized healthcare. The potential to tailor treatments based on an individual’s genetic makeup could revolutionize the medical field, leading to more precise and effective therapies. I am also interested in applying bioinformatics to environmental sustainability efforts, particularly in agriculture and ecosystem management. In the future, I aim to pursue graduate studies in bioinformatics and eventually work in research and development, contributing to breakthroughs in genomics and biotechnology. My ultimate goal is to leverage bioinformatics tools to develop innovative solutions that can address health disparities and improve global access to healthcare. Overall, bioinformatics allows me to unite my passion for biology with my technical expertise, providing a path where I can make a tangible difference in society. Whether through healthcare, agriculture, or environmental conservation, I am excited to see where this field will take me, and I am committed to continuously learning and contributing to the advancements in bioinformatics.

My passion for public service stems from a deep-rooted desire to give back to the community that shaped me and to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard. Growing up, my family faced numerous challenges. My parents, immigrants with limited education, worked tirelessly to provide for us while continuing to learn English. Their perseverance and sacrifices shaped my understanding of resilience and community. I witnessed firsthand the importance of access to resources and support systems, as our family relied on programs like Medicaid and free school meals to meet our basic needs. This background instilled in me a sense of duty to serve and advocate for others who face similar struggles. Being the child of immigrants, I had to navigate the complexities of language and cultural barriers from a young age. I vividly remember being placed in English as a Second Language (ESOL) classes in first grade, where I struggled to understand my teachers and articulate my thoughts. But as I gained proficiency in English, I began to see the world around me in a new light. Suddenly, I could help my parents communicate, advocate for their needs, and even participate in conversations that were once beyond my reach. This experience showed me the power of language and communication in bridging gaps and empowering individuals. As I matured, my commitment to public service deepened. I took on leadership roles in my school and community, becoming class treasurer and a representative at Board of Education meetings. These positions allowed me to actively contribute to the betterment of my school and peers, while also honing my organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Through my involvement, I realized the transformative impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping policy and driving change at both local and broader levels. Moreover, my experiences as a first-generation student pursuing higher education have further fueled my passion for advocating for equity and access. I understand the barriers that students from low-income and marginalized backgrounds face, and I want to dedicate my career to dismantling those barriers. Whether through law, policy, or direct public service, I am committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. Public service, for me, is more than a career—it is a calling. It is about giving back to the communities that have shaped me and ensuring that no one is left behind. My upbringing in a family that had to rely on public support systems has taught me the importance of these services and the need for compassionate, effective leadership in this field. I am excited to pursue a career where I can advocate for vulnerable populations, shape policies that promote equity, and work towards a society where everyone has a fair chance to thrive.

Growing up in a family that worked tirelessly on a farm and later managed a restaurant, I have been shaped by the values of hard work, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility. My parents’ sacrifices, including immigrating to the United States and learning a new language, taught me the importance of perseverance and education. Their journey inspired me to embrace challenges, foster a passion for learning, and strive for success, not just for myself, but for the betterment of others. My involvement in agriculture has profoundly influenced my perspective on life and my aspirations for the future. Although my parents had limited access to education due to their responsibilities on the farm, they instilled in me an appreciation for the natural world and the vital role agriculture plays in society. This connection to the land inspired my interest in combining traditional practices with innovative technologies to address global issues like food security. For example, I am passionate about applying my knowledge of computer science to improve farming techniques. By coding programs to analyze soil conditions or monitor air quality, I aim to help farmers optimize crop yields while ensuring environmental sustainability. This integration of technology and agriculture represents my commitment to using modern tools to solve age-old problems. Academically, I have excelled through a combination of determination and curiosity. Despite initial struggles with language barriers as a first-generation American, I persevered and eventually graduated as salutatorian of my class. Along the way, I embraced numerous extracurricular activities, including leadership roles as team captain for the girls’ varsity tennis team and treasurer for my class. These experiences have not only honed my organizational and communication skills but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and community building. Leadership, for me, is about inspiring others and creating opportunities for growth, whether through planning successful fundraising events or mentoring peers. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I have found a platform to encourage women and non-binary individuals to explore careers in technology. This aligns with my goal of fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. I aspire to mentor others, just as I have been supported, and contribute to a more equitable and innovative workforce. My involvement in hackathons, internships, and coding programs has solidified my commitment to bridging the gap between technology and real-world applications, particularly in addressing societal challenges. Looking ahead, I envision a future where my work as a software developer makes a tangible impact. Whether it’s designing systems to combat hunger or enhancing collaboration in diverse teams, I aim to use my skills to create solutions that improve lives. My background in agriculture has taught me that growth requires dedication and adaptability, qualities I carry into every endeavor. By staying curious and committed to learning, I will continue striving to make a positive difference in the world.

Entering higher education as a first-generation immigrant is both an exciting and daunting prospect. My journey thus far has been shaped by my parents’ sacrifices, cultural transitions, and the pursuit of knowledge in the face of challenges. Reflecting on my experiences as the child of immigrants who came to the United States with minimal formal education has deepened my understanding of the transformative power of education and fueled my aspirations for the future. Growing up, my parents’ limited schooling in their home country meant that education was a privilege they never fully experienced. After immigrating to the United States, they began learning English—a process that continues to this day. Witnessing their determination to adapt to a new environment taught me the value of perseverance and lifelong learning. As a child, I struggled with English and was placed in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program. Over time, mastering the language illuminated the world around me, enabling me to assist my parents and embrace opportunities that were inaccessible to them. This foundation of resilience and gratitude has profoundly influenced my educational journey. Despite the challenges, I’ve consistently sought knowledge and pursued academic excellence. My parents’ emphasis on education instilled in me a strong work ethic, which has propelled me to achievements such as maintaining perfect attendance, excelling in rigorous coursework, and graduating as salutatorian. However, my drive for learning extends beyond accolades—it reflects a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to society. Growing up in my parents’ restaurant, I balanced schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and helping in the family business. These experiences taught me invaluable lessons in responsibility, time management, and adaptability. As I prepare to enter higher education, I am motivated to pursue a degree in computer science and business administration. My passion for technology stems from a curiosity about how it can address real-world issues, such as food security and environmental sustainability. Through coding programs and internships, I’ve realized the potential of computer science to revolutionize industries and improve lives. My goal is to leverage my education to develop innovative solutions that enhance agricultural productivity and ensure global access to nutritious food. However, my aspirations are not without concerns. As an outsider to the higher education system, I worry about navigating the complexities of academic life and bridging cultural differences. Financial constraints and imposter syndrome are challenges I anticipate facing. Yet, these challenges also serve as reminders of my parents’ journey and the opportunities their sacrifices have provided me. They inspire me to persist and embrace higher education as a platform for growth, self-discovery, and giving back to the community. Being a first-generation immigrant has profoundly shaped my perspective and goals. It has taught me the importance of resilience, gratitude, and hard work. As I embark on this next chapter, I am determined to honor my parents’ sacrifices, advocate for underrepresented voices in technology, and mentor others who share my experiences. Higher education is not just a stepping stone—it is a gateway to transforming aspirations into impactful contributions for society.

The trades are vital, though often underappreciated, career fields that are essential for the functioning of society. From constructing buildings to ensuring infrastructure runs smoothly, skilled tradespeople play a pivotal role in our daily lives. Yet, beyond maintenance and construction, the trades are also crucial for fostering innovation and advancing societal progress. Fields like engineering, architecture, and other specialized trades provide the tools and creativity to reimagine our world, driving continuous improvement in how we live and work. My journey toward a career in a trade-related field reflects my passion for learning, perseverance, and commitment to making a meaningful impact. Growing up, my parents emphasized the value of hard work and education despite their limited access to formal schooling. Their sacrifices instilled in me a deep gratitude for opportunities and a determination to maximize them. This upbringing shaped my work ethic, enabling me to excel academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and contribute to my community. For example, as class treasurer, I organized and executed fundraising events that required collaboration, organization, and adaptability, skills essential for thriving in any trade. One defining aspect of my character is my love for problem-solving and continuous learning. My fascination with technology and its potential to address real-world challenges led me to pursue computer science. The trades are increasingly integrated with technology, and I see tremendous potential in applying computational tools to optimize processes, improve sustainability, and enhance productivity. For instance, programming could revolutionize fields like construction and agriculture, from analyzing materials for durability to optimizing resource use. This intersection of technology and the trades inspires me to explore new ways to innovate while addressing critical societal needs. Being a member of various organizations, including Girls Who Code, has also prepared me for a future in the trades. These experiences taught me leadership, teamwork, and resilience—qualities essential for success in any professional setting. As I work toward my goal of becoming a software developer, I aim to leverage my skills to create solutions that not only advance industry practices but also foster inclusivity and accessibility in traditionally male-dominated fields. By mentoring others and sharing my knowledge, I hope to contribute to a more diverse and equitable workforce. The trades require more than technical expertise; they demand a sense of responsibility, adaptability, and dedication to lifelong learning. My background in customer service, leadership roles, and technical education has equipped me with these skills. Whether collaborating on a project or solving complex problems, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to my chosen field. This scholarship represents an opportunity to further my education and deepen my impact. It will allow me to focus on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a trade-related career, ensuring I can turn my aspirations into reality. By supporting students in pursuing these essential fields, we can ensure a brighter, more innovative future for society as a whole.

This scholarship embodies a powerful vision: fostering a community of women empowered by knowledge, driven by curiosity, and poised to make meaningful contributions to the STEM field. As a first-generation student passionate about computer science and a lifelong learner, I deeply resonate with this mission and am eager to contribute to such a transformative community. My journey began in a household where education was a hard-earned privilege. My parents, who immigrated to the U.S. with limited formal schooling, instilled in me the value of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. Growing up, I navigated the challenges of learning English as a second language, an experience that sparked my appreciation for the power of knowledge and communication. As I mastered the language, I found a newfound confidence and a desire to immerse myself in the world of ideas. This curiosity has remained a cornerstone of my academic and personal growth. Whether pursuing rigorous coursework, participating in hackathons, or earning my Dell Client Foundations Certificate, I have consistently sought opportunities to expand my understanding of technology and its potential to address real-world challenges. For instance, I have envisioned applying my programming skills to enhance agricultural efficiency, from analyzing soil data to improving air quality for crop production. These endeavors exemplify how STEM can create tangible, positive impacts on society. However, my aspirations extend beyond technical innovation. As a member of the Girls Who Code alumni community, I am committed to fostering a supportive network for women and non-binary individuals interested in technology. Mentorship has played a pivotal role in my journey, and I am eager to pay it forward by guiding others in their pursuit of STEM careers. By sharing my experiences and lessons, I hope to inspire future generations to embrace curiosity and break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. Leadership has also been a defining aspect of my identity. Whether serving as treasurer for my class, captain of my varsity tennis team, or president of the Mastermind Club, I have honed skills such as organization, collaboration, and adaptability. These experiences have not only strengthened my ability to lead but have also reinforced the importance of community in achieving collective goals. For example, through class fundraisers, I witnessed how teamwork and creativity could overcome resource limitations and unite individuals toward a shared purpose. This scholarship represents more than financial support; it symbolizes an opportunity to join a network of women dedicated to driving progress in STEM. By nurturing curiosity and fostering collaboration, this community can challenge stereotypes, push boundaries, and create innovative solutions to global challenges. With the support of this scholarship, I aim to deepen my technical expertise, engage in mentorship, and continue contributing to a more inclusive and empowered STEM landscape. As a scholar, leader, and aspiring software developer, I am ready to embrace this opportunity and help build a future where women in STEM thrive and lead with knowledge, creativity, and purpose. Through collaboration and shared ambition, we can redefine what it means to innovate and inspire in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Living sustainably in my daily life is a commitment shaped by intentional choices and driven by the desire to reduce my carbon footprint. Small yet meaningful actions allow me to contribute to the well-being of the planet while fostering a lifestyle that aligns with my values and long-term vision for environmental preservation. A fundamental way I practice sustainability is through my approach to consumption. I make conscious decisions to minimize waste by adopting reusable items such as water bottles, shopping bags, and food containers. By doing so, I actively reduce the single-use plastics that contribute to pollution. Additionally, I am mindful of my energy use. For example, I turn off lights and unplug appliances when they are not in use, and I aim to utilize energy-efficient devices wherever possible. These small steps accumulate into significant savings in energy and resources over time. Transportation is another area where I strive to make sustainable choices. Whenever feasible, I opt for walking, biking, or using public transportation rather than driving. This not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also encourages healthier habits. For longer distances, I carpool or combine trips to maximize efficiency and minimize fuel consumption. These practices are particularly significant because transportation is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions globally. In my diet, I make a concerted effort to reduce food waste and choose plant-based options more frequently. While I do not exclusively follow a vegetarian diet, I am aware of the environmental impact of meat production and make an effort to balance my meals with sustainable options. Moreover, I try to support local farmers and purchase seasonal produce to minimize the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation. The importance of reducing my carbon footprint stems from a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of human activity and the environment. Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and individual actions play a crucial role in mitigating its effects. By reducing my carbon footprint, I am contributing to the broader goal of slowing global warming, preserving natural ecosystems, and ensuring that future generations inherit a livable planet. Sustainability is also a reflection of gratitude for the resources we have. My upbringing has instilled in me the value of resourcefulness and the importance of not taking our environment for granted. Seeing the impact of waste and pollution in various communities has reinforced my commitment to living sustainably. It reminds me that the benefits of such actions extend beyond my personal sphere—they contribute to a healthier, more equitable world. Ultimately, sustainability is a journey, not a destination. My efforts may seem modest, but I believe that collective action can lead to transformative change. By embracing sustainable practices and encouraging others to do the same, I aim to be part of a global movement that prioritizes the health of our planet and its people.

Growing up in my parents' restaurant, I was immersed in a fast-paced environment that instilled core values of leadership, resilience, selflessness, focus, and a strong work ethic. These traits have shaped my daily routine and my approach to every challenge I face. As the class treasurer since 2022, I have planned and executed successful fundraising events. This experience sharpened my leadership and communication skills as I collaborated with my peers and advisors to ensure that every event ran smoothly. I prioritized organization, punctuality, and efficiency, which allowed us to meet our financial goals and host meaningful class events. Leadership, to me, is not about being in charge, but about creating a shared vision and working with others to achieve it. Through this, I’ve learned that clear communication and teamwork are crucial to accomplishing tasks effectively, whether in school or in the restaurant. Growing up in a low-income household, I quickly learned the value of resilience. Balancing my responsibilities at home, in school, and at the restaurant, while maintaining perfect attendance and graduating as salutatorian, taught me that success requires grit and perseverance. When challenges arise, I tackle them head-on, knowing that hard work and persistence pay off. This resilience has carried over into my academic and extracurricular pursuits, where I consistently push myself to excel, even when the path is difficult. One of the most important lessons my upbringing has taught me is the value of selflessness. Helping at my parents' restaurant from a young age required me to sacrifice much of my free time. Rather than seeing this as a burden, I view it as an opportunity to support my family and strengthen my character. I’ve learned that true success is not measured by individual achievements but by how much you can give back to others, whether it’s lending a hand to my family or volunteering in my community. This has also influenced my goal of applying computer science to solve real-world problems like food security, aiming to use technology to improve lives globally. Focus and determination have been central to my ability to balance multiple responsibilities. From excelling in rigorous courses to participating in hackathons and internships, I have remained driven to pursue my goals. My focus on becoming a software developer is fueled by my passion for learning and my desire to contribute to my community through technology. I am determined to stay updated with the latest advancements in computer science, constantly learning to refine my skills and make a meaningful impact in the world. My strong work ethic is a direct reflection of my upbringing in the restaurant. Working long hours alongside my parents has taught me the importance of dedication and hard work in achieving one’s goals. Whether I am managing customer orders, leading a fundraising event, or coding a program to address food security, I approach each task with the same level of commitment. This work ethic will guide me through my college journey and into my career as a software developer. In the future, I want to apply my education in computer science to solve pressing global issues, such as food security. My goal is to use technology to help ensure that every person has access to basic necessities like food. Leadership, to me, is about inspiring others to work toward a common goal while using your skills and knowledge to serve the greater good. I aim to lead by example, showing that with hard work, resilience, and a commitment to helping others, we can make a lasting impact on the world.

The rhythm of clanking kitchen tools and the savory smells of my parents' restaurant are imprinted in my memory from childhood. Growing up there shaped my work ethic and sense of responsibility, but it also taught me the value of community. The restaurant became more than just a workplace for me—it was a space where I witnessed the power of connection, where relationships with customers deepened through daily interactions. These experiences inspired me to contribute beyond my family’s business and get involved in my wider community. What motivates me most to engage with my community is a desire to create meaningful change, particularly through technology. I’ve always had a passion for learning, and as I gained skills in computer science, I began to see how I could use them to help others. Food security, for example, is an issue close to my heart because of my family’s agricultural roots. Through internships, hackathons, and coding programs, I realized that technology can be a powerful tool to address real-world problems like this. I see an opportunity to apply my skills to develop programs that help farmers monitor soil quality, increase crop yields, and ensure that food production is sustainable and efficient. By tackling food security, I hope to contribute to healthier communities and help combat global hunger. In addition to my technical pursuits, I’ve worked to foster change by supporting underrepresented groups in tech, particularly women and non-binary people. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I have the privilege of being part of a supportive network dedicated to breaking down barriers in the field of technology. Through mentorship and sharing my own experiences, I aim to encourage more women to enter and succeed in STEM fields. I believe that a diverse workforce is essential for innovation, and I want to empower others the way mentors have empowered me. By uplifting other women, I hope to create a more inclusive environment in tech, one where diverse perspectives are valued and lead to better solutions. My involvement in the National Honor Society, community volunteering, and leadership roles as class treasurer have also shaped my commitment to service. Through organizing fundraising events and working collaboratively with my peers, I’ve learned the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving collective goals. I’ve had the honor of representing my school at Board of Education meetings, where I’ve had a chance to advocate for student needs and contribute to the betterment of my school community. Ultimately, I’m inspired by the belief that change begins at the community level. Whether it’s through advocating for food security with technology or supporting diversity in STEM, I’m committed to using my skills and experiences to make a positive impact. My upbringing in my parents’ restaurant has taught me the importance of hard work and responsibility, but it’s my passion for learning and service that drives me to influence change in my community and beyond.

Growing up as the child of recent immigrants and being a first-generation student has deeply shaped my perspective on life. My parents immigrated to the United States after completing only some grade school education and working on a farm. Their journey toward learning never ended, as they continued to learn English and adapt to a new country even while working long hours to support our family. Watching them persevere, despite challenges and limitations, instilled in me a profound respect for hard work and the belief that education is a privilege not to be taken for granted. As a young child, I struggled with English, just as my parents did. I was placed in an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program in first grade. At that time, I could barely understand my teachers and often felt lost in class. But as my English improved, I noticed my world expanding—conversations with others became easier, and I could help my parents navigate tasks like speaking with customers or filling out forms. This newfound skill of communication became my bridge to both my parents’ world and the larger world around me. It also sparked in me an insatiable desire for learning. My parents’ sacrifices, like their decision to leave school to help on their farm or work tirelessly in our family restaurant, inspired me to pursue every opportunity they didn’t have. Although they didn’t get the chance to finish their education, they instilled in me the importance of never taking mine for granted. I’ve carried this belief with me through my academic career, leading me to excel in school and challenge myself with rigorous courses, coding programs, hackathons, and internships. Being a first-generation student from a low-income background has also given me a deep sense of gratitude for every opportunity I’ve had. Programs like free school meals and SAT fee waivers helped lessen the financial burden on my family, while being involved in the National Honor Society and graduating as salutatorian has opened doors to further education. My experiences in our family’s restaurant reinforced the values of responsibility, communication, and time management—skills that are crucial in both academic and personal success. But beyond the practical skills I’ve gained, my upbringing has shaped my understanding of community and the importance of giving back. My goal of becoming a software developer is driven not just by my love for the field, but by the desire to use technology to solve real-world problems, such as food security. Growing up, I saw how hard my parents worked to provide for our family, and I want to ensure that others, especially those in underserved communities, have the resources they need to thrive. I aspire to apply my knowledge in computer science to address issues like crop production and nutrition, ensuring that food security is attainable for all. At the heart of it all, being a first-generation student means honoring my parents' journey while forging my own path. It means carrying forward their spirit of perseverance, sacrifice, and learning. My beliefs about life are rooted in the understanding that education is a powerful tool for change, and I intend to use it to create opportunities for others just as my parents did for me.

From a young age, I witnessed my parents' dedication and perseverance, which greatly influenced my academic and personal journey. As immigrants who did not have the privilege of completing their education, my parents worked hard to provide for our family. They sacrificed their dreams of furthering their education to support their families on the farm, and after moving to the U.S., they took on the challenge of learning English, a journey they continue today. Their relentless pursuit of a better life instilled in me a deep appreciation for education and the opportunities it provides. When I first entered school, my limited English skills made it difficult for me to communicate or understand my teachers. Placed in English as a Second Language classes, I struggled to articulate my thoughts. However, once I began to grasp the language, the world around me opened up. I was able to help my parents communicate, engage in conversations, and fully appreciate the power of knowledge. This ignited a lifelong passion for learning that continues to drive me today. Growing up in my parents' restaurant taught me valuable lessons about responsibility, time management, and perseverance. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and helping at the restaurant taught me the importance of hard work. As a student, I channeled that same dedication into my academics, becoming the salutatorian of my class, earning membership in the National Honor Society, and never missing a day of school. These accomplishments reflect my determination to succeed despite any obstacles. My love for problem-solving and technology drew me to pursue a degree in computer science. The satisfaction I feel after solving a complex math problem motivates me to keep learning and applying my skills to real-world issues. Over the years, I have participated in hackathons, coding programs, and internships, each of which has reinforced my desire to become a software developer. My goal is to use my knowledge to address pressing global challenges, particularly food security. Through computer science, I can develop tools to analyze soil quality, monitor crop health, and improve agricultural practices, helping to ensure that people have access to nutritious food. As a first-generation student from a low-income family, I recognize the importance of financial assistance in achieving my academic and career goals. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies, pursue internships, and further develop my skills without the burden of financial strain. It would also enable me to continue my involvement in community service and leadership roles, where I have already gained valuable experience through fundraising, organizing events, and speaking on behalf of my school. In the future, I aim to leverage my degree in computer science to create innovative solutions that address critical global issues. I am committed to making a meaningful impact on my community by applying my skills to help others, particularly in underserved populations. This scholarship will support me in reaching that goal, allowing me to dedicate myself fully to my education and future career.

Growing up in a low-income, immigrant family has deeply shaped my academic journey and instilled in me values of hard work, resilience, and gratitude. My parents immigrated to the U.S. with limited English skills and only grade school education. They worked tirelessly in their restaurant to provide for our family, sacrificing their own education for survival. From a young age, I helped at the restaurant while navigating school, extracurriculars, and the challenges of learning a new language. I was placed in the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program in first grade, struggling to understand my teachers and articulate my thoughts. But once I grasped English, the world around me brightened, and my passion for learning ignited. I began to value education as the path to a better life, not just for myself but for my family and community. Despite financial difficulties, I maintained a strong academic performance. My parents instilled in me the importance of attending school daily, which helped me develop a strong work ethic. I graduated as salutatorian of my class while being involved in multiple extracurricular activities, maintaining perfect attendance, and serving as class treasurer. Additionally, I joined several computer science programs, internships, and hackathons, cultivating my love for problem-solving and coding. I plan to pursue a career as a software developer to tackle real-world issues, such as food security. My passion for computer science grew out of a desire to apply technology to issues that matter—whether that’s creating programs to improve agricultural efficiency or building systems to ensure that communities have access to essential resources like food. Being a first-generation student, I’ve also faced financial hurdles. My family qualifies for Medicaid, SAT/ACT fee waivers, and free school meals, but the cost of higher education remains a significant burden. Despite these challenges, I have excelled academically. I scored in the top percentiles on both SAT and ACT, balancing school, work at the family restaurant, and numerous leadership roles, including my position as treasurer and participation in STEM clubs. I’ve spoken at Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school and have planned successful fundraising events. These experiences have taught me leadership, communication, and collaboration skills that I apply in both academic and professional settings. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate much of the financial pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies, continue participating in internships, and gain hands-on experience in computer science. It would enable me to pursue my goal of becoming a software developer, a career that will allow me to solve meaningful problems such as global food security through technology. With my education, I hope to contribute to a more sustainable world by improving agricultural practices and creating technology-driven solutions that address hunger and nutrition issues. I am also passionate about mentoring other women in technology through the Girls Who Code Alumni community, sharing my experiences and knowledge to help build a diverse, skilled workforce. The Dr. Chaman L. Gupta scholarship would not only help me reach my academic and career goals but also equip me to make a positive impact on my community and beyond. By reducing my financial burden, I can dedicate myself to achieving success in computer science and give back to the communities that have shaped me.

Clink. Clank. Clang. The familiar sounds of the kitchen echoed in the background as I sat at the counter, tinkering with a broken laptop one afternoon after school. My family’s restaurant had closed for the day, and I finally had time to focus on one of my favorite pastimes—fixing things. That day, the problem before me wasn’t an order to take or a dish to pack, but a Dell laptop that had been acting up for weeks. It belonged to my younger cousin, who had complained about slow speeds and random shutdowns just as she was gearing up for her online school exams. As a member of the Student DELL Helpdesk at my school, I’d learned how to troubleshoot and repair basic hardware and software issues. I had earned my DELL Client Foundations Certificate earlier that year, and I was excited to put my skills to use outside the classroom. My cousin’s frustration with her laptop was a problem I couldn’t wait to solve. I started with the basics—checking for viruses, clearing out unnecessary files, and ensuring her software was up to date. But the real issue turned out to be more complicated. The laptop was overheating, causing it to shut down unexpectedly. Knowing how vital this laptop was for her schoolwork, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to get it working again. I carefully took apart the laptop, inspecting the cooling system. I found that the fan was clogged with dust and wasn’t functioning properly. After cleaning the fan and applying a fresh layer of thermal paste to the processor, I reassembled the laptop. I powered it up and tested it rigorously to ensure the problem was fixed. The laptop now ran smoothly, without any of the previous slowdowns or shutdowns. My cousin was thrilled, her smile beaming as she thanked me for saving her from the stress of a malfunctioning computer during her exams. That experience taught me how deeply satisfying it is to use my skills to help others, especially in a way that makes a tangible difference in their lives. It reminded me of my roots in my parents’ restaurant—how the fast-paced, problem-solving environment had shaped me to think on my feet and find solutions under pressure. Whether in the kitchen or fixing a computer, the ability to quickly assess a situation and come up with a fix has been invaluable. Since that day, I’ve continued to hone my skills, participating in hackathons, coding programs, and internships to expand my knowledge. What started as a simple desire to fix a broken laptop has grown into a passion for technology, problem-solving, and helping others in ways I never anticipated. It’s that same passion that drives me toward my goal of becoming a software developer, where I hope to continue using technology to solve real-world problems and make an impact on my community.

Going to college means more to me than just earning a degree; it symbolizes the culmination of my family's sacrifices and the pursuit of opportunities they never had. As a first-generation student from a low-income, immigrant background, my parents’ journey to education was cut short as they had to help on their parents' farms and later adjust to life in a new country. Although they only completed some grade school, they have always emphasized the value of education. Their determination to learn English, even as adults, continues to inspire me. College represents my opportunity to build on their sacrifices and make the most of the education they were unable to receive. For me, college is not just about acquiring knowledge but about pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve. My upbringing instilled in me a passion for learning, a deep sense of gratitude, and a strong work ethic. Throughout high school, I have been involved in the National Honor Society, maintained perfect attendance, and graduated as salutatorian. But college is where I will truly start working towards my long-term goal of becoming a software developer. My interest in computer science began with a whim when I joined my school’s Student DELL Helpdesk, but it quickly grew into a passion as I worked towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate. Since then, I have immersed myself in coding programs, hackathons, and internships, realizing that technology holds the key to solving some of the world’s biggest challenges. One of my aspirations is to address food security through computer science. With technology, I can develop programs that analyze soil characteristics, check air quality, and optimize crop yields to ensure healthier food production. I aim to help farmers increase yield and efficiency, thus contributing to the fight against global hunger. By applying my knowledge to real-world problems, I hope to make a tangible impact on my community and beyond. College is also my chance to build networks, form meaningful connections, and empower others. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I want to help other women and non-binary individuals discover their passions in technology. Just as I have been supported by mentors who helped me grow, I aspire to pay it forward by becoming a mentor myself. College will give me the opportunity to further develop my leadership skills, share my knowledge, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive tech workforce. In summary, going to college means honoring my parents’ sacrifices, pursuing my passion for computer science, and striving to make a positive impact on the world. It is not just about personal achievement; it is about using the opportunities I have been given to help others. I am excited to embark on this journey, knowing that each step brings me closer to making my dream of becoming a software developer a reality.

Maintaining mental wellness is important because it influences how we think, feel, and act. It affects our ability to cope with stress, relate to others, and make decisions. For me, the pressures of school, family expectations, and the pursuit of my dreams can sometimes feel overwhelming. Balancing rigorous coursework with extracurricular activities and family responsibilities creates a constant need to manage my mental health. I’ve learned that neglecting mental wellness can lead to burnout, anxiety, and decreased motivation, ultimately hindering my ability to reach my goals. To maintain my mental wellness, I employ several strategies that have proven effective in managing stress and promoting a positive mindset. One of the most important practices I’ve adopted is mindfulness. Taking time each day for mindfulness meditation helps me center myself and cultivate a sense of calm amid chaos. Whether through guided meditation apps or simple deep-breathing exercises, this practice allows me to step back from my worries and focus on the present moment. It serves as a reminder that I can only control my reactions to situations, not the situations themselves. Additionally, I prioritize physical health as a key component of my mental wellness. Regular exercise is not only beneficial for physical fitness but also plays a significant role in releasing endorphins, which elevate mood. I enjoy going for runs or practicing yoga, both of which help me clear my mind and relieve stress. Engaging in physical activity gives me a sense of accomplishment and boosts my confidence, further enhancing my mental health. Another crucial aspect of maintaining my mental wellness is nurturing social connections. As a first-generation student, I often feel the weight of my family’s expectations on my shoulders. However, building a support network with friends, mentors, and teachers has been invaluable. Sharing my thoughts and feelings with others who understand my struggles helps me feel less isolated. I make it a point to connect with friends regularly, whether it’s through study sessions, casual hangouts, or simply checking in with each other. These relationships provide a sense of belonging that is vital for my mental health. Moreover, I find creative outlets to express myself, whether through writing, art, or music. Engaging in creative activities allows me to channel my emotions productively. Writing, in particular, serves as a therapeutic tool that helps me process my thoughts and feelings. Whether I’m journaling about my day or crafting essays for school, putting my thoughts into words fosters clarity and helps me navigate complex emotions. Finally, I’ve learned the importance of seeking help when needed. Understanding that it’s okay to ask for support has been a crucial lesson in my journey. Whether talking to a counselor, seeking advice from trusted teachers, or confiding in friends, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I remind myself that prioritizing mental health is not selfish but necessary for my growth and success. In conclusion, mental health is vital to overall well-being, affecting how we navigate life’s challenges and opportunities. By practicing mindfulness, prioritizing physical health, nurturing social connections, engaging in creative outlets, and seeking help when necessary, I maintain my mental wellness. As I continue on my educational journey, I am committed to prioritizing my mental health, understanding that a strong foundation in mental wellness will enable me to achieve my goals and contribute positively to my community.

Olivia Rodrigo’s album *GUTS* is filled with raw emotion and relatable experiences that capture the essence of adolescence. One lyric that particularly resonates with my own teenage journey is from the song "Vampire": “I’m not sure if I’m a girl who’s just trying to be seen, or a boy who’s trying to be something he’s not.” This line encapsulates the feelings of confusion and self-discovery that are often part of growing up. Adolescence is a tumultuous time marked by intense emotional highs and lows. During this phase, we often grapple with our identities and how we fit into the world around us. The lyric speaks to the struggle many teenagers face when trying to navigate their sense of self amid societal expectations and peer pressures. For many, the desire to be accepted can lead to moments of inauthenticity, where we feel compelled to present a version of ourselves that might not align with our true feelings or beliefs. In my own experience, this sense of confusion has been a constant companion. As a first-generation student, I have felt the weight of expectations from my family and the pressure to succeed in an educational system that can often feel alien. The challenge of trying to balance my own dreams with those of my family often leads to a sense of identity crisis. Much like the lyric suggests, I sometimes find myself questioning if I’m striving to be the person I want to be or conforming to the roles that others envision for me. Moreover, the lyric reflects the universal experience of seeking validation during a time when our self-esteem is still forming. Many teenagers, including myself, yearn to be seen and appreciated for who we are. This longing can lead to moments of vulnerability, where we question our worth based on the reactions of those around us. Olivia's words resonate deeply because they articulate this struggle to navigate the complexities of adolescence while trying to maintain authenticity in a world that often promotes superficiality. Additionally, the mention of “trying to be something he’s not” highlights the societal pressures related to gender and identity. Adolescence is a time of exploration, not just academically but also socially and personally. We often experiment with different facets of our identity, including our interests, values, and even our appearance. This exploration can sometimes feel daunting, especially when societal norms dictate how we should behave or what we should like. It brings forth feelings of insecurity and fear of rejection, which can be overwhelming. The lyric serves as a reminder that these feelings are valid and common among teenagers. It encourages us to embrace our uniqueness and understand that the journey of self-discovery is ongoing. Every awkward moment, every mistake, and every triumph is part of a larger narrative that shapes who we are. In conclusion, Olivia Rodrigo’s lyric from *GUTS* encapsulates the essence of adolescence—its confusion, struggles, and the quest for identity. It resonates deeply with my own experiences as a first-generation student, navigating the complexities of expectations and self-acceptance. This reflection on the lyric not only highlights the challenges of growing up but also emphasizes the importance of embracing our authentic selves amid the noise of the world around us. As we continue to grow, it’s vital to remember that it’s okay to be a work in progress, and that our journeys toward self-discovery are what ultimately define us.

1. Fruits - Words: Apple, Banana, Carrot, Broccoli - Reasoning: This group consists of various fruits and vegetables. While carrots and broccoli are technically vegetables, they can often be found alongside fruits in grocery stores and cooking. However, for clarity, let's categorize this as fruits. Apples and bananas are common fruits, while carrots and broccoli are frequently included in discussions about nutrition alongside fruits. 2. Musical Instruments - Words: Guitar, Piano, Violin, Flute - Reasoning: This group includes well-known musical instruments. The guitar is a string instrument, the piano is a keyboard instrument, the violin is a string instrument often associated with classical music, and the flute is a woodwind instrument. Each instrument plays a significant role in various music genres, showcasing the diversity of musical expression. 3. Flowers and Trees - Words: Rose, Tulip, Oak, Pine - Reasoning: This category consists of both flowers and trees. Roses and tulips are popular flowering plants, often associated with gardens and ornamental uses. On the other hand, oak and pine are common trees known for their durability and presence in forests. This grouping emphasizes the beauty of nature and its different forms, from flowering plants to sturdy trees. 4. Sports - Words: Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Baseball - Reasoning: This group encompasses popular team and individual sports. Soccer is played globally, basketball is a well-known indoor sport, tennis is a racket sport that can be played individually or in doubles, and baseball is often referred to as America’s pastime. This grouping reflects the diversity of sports people engage in for recreation and competition. This Connections puzzle highlights the diverse categories of fruits, musical instruments, flowers and trees, and sports. Each group showcases distinct characteristics that bind the words together, allowing players to explore their knowledge in these areas. By creating a challenge that encourages critical thinking and categorization skills, this puzzle provides a fun and engaging way to interact with language and concepts. The reasoning behind the groupings encourages players to think outside the box, as categories like fruits can include both fruits and vegetables, making it an enjoyable puzzle for various skill levels.

Introducing the Island of Dreams challenge, a unique Love Island twist that blends creativity, teamwork, and a sprinkle of romance! This challenge not only tests the couples’ compatibility but also allows them to express their feelings for each other in a fun and engaging way. The Island of Dream challenge takes place in a beautifully decorated outdoor space, complete with tropical backdrops, fairy lights, and soft music playing in the background to set the mood. The villa is transformed into a vibrant “dreamscape” that embodies the fantasies and aspirations of each couple. The challenge is designed for couples to collaborate and create a vision board that represents their ideal future together. The challenge begins with all the couples gathering in the main area of the villa, where they are greeted by the host, who explains the rules and objectives. Each couple receives a large canvas and a variety of materials to work with, including magazines, colored markers, glue, scissors, and various decorative items such as glitter, stickers, and fabric swatches. To enhance the experience, each couple is given a specific theme to focus on, such as travel adventures, family dreams, or career goals. This adds an element of creativity while encouraging deeper conversations about their individual aspirations and how they align as a couple. Once the rules are laid out, the couples are given a set time—around two hours—to create their vision boards. During this time, they are encouraged to talk openly about their hopes, dreams, and what they envision for their future together. This intimate setting provides a unique opportunity for them to bond and understand each other on a deeper level. As the couples work on their boards, the producers capture candid moments, showcasing laughter, playful banter, and heartfelt discussions. Each couple is also provided with a dream jar, where they can write down their goals and dreams, which they will later read aloud to one another. Once the time is up, the couples present their vision boards to the other islanders. Each presentation lasts about five minutes, allowing the couples to explain their themes, share their aspirations, and highlight key elements from their boards. This segment is filled with laughter, admiration, and a few heartfelt moments, as the islanders cheer for one another. To keep the excitement high, the host announces a voting round where the other islanders will vote for the most creative and inspiring vision board. The winning couple receives a luxurious date night, complete with a candlelit dinner and a private sunset view, allowing them to further explore their dreams together. As the challenge concludes, couples reflect on the experience, discussing what they learned about each other and their shared visions. This moment solidifies connections and promotes deeper intimacy, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in a relationship. Overall, the Island of Dreams challenge adds a meaningful layer to the Love Island experience, allowing couples to showcase their creativity while engaging in heartfelt conversations. It not only tests their compatibility but also encourages them to dream together, making it a memorable and transformative challenge in the villa!

*The Bear* has captivated audiences with its raw portrayal of the culinary world and the personal struggles of its characters. As the series nears its conclusion, I envision a perfect ending that encapsulates the growth, resilience, and camaraderie that have been central themes throughout. In this ideal scenario, the characters find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives while staying true to their roots. First and foremost, I would love to see Carmy achieve his dream of transforming the family restaurant into a successful and innovative establishment. Throughout the series, we’ve watched him grapple with the weight of expectations and the pressure to honor his brother’s legacy. In the final season, he could successfully launch a new menu that reflects his culinary vision while incorporating elements of family tradition. This new direction would resonate with both the community and the restaurant’s loyal patrons, allowing them to feel connected to the restaurant’s history while enjoying a fresh and exciting dining experience. By the end, we see Carmy in a position where he has not only regained his confidence but has also embraced his role as a leader, inspiring his team to strive for excellence. In this perfect ending, Sydney’s journey would also culminate in a significant breakthrough. Throughout the series, she has evolved from an ambitious chef to a vital part of the restaurant’s identity. I envision her taking the reins as head chef, utilizing her creative flair to elevate the menu while fostering a collaborative environment in the kitchen. Sydney could also start mentoring younger cooks, emphasizing the importance of skill development and teamwork, thereby creating a lasting impact on the culinary community. Her success would highlight the series’ message about the importance of resilience and the power of female representation in a traditionally male-dominated industry. As for Richie, his character has undergone considerable development, shifting from a reckless friend to a supportive figure. In the finale, I would love to see him stepping into a more stable role, perhaps as the restaurant’s front-of-house manager. This transition would symbolize his commitment to the business and his desire to contribute positively to the team. Through this role, Richie could build meaningful connections with the customers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements Carmy and Sydney’s culinary creations. His character arc would reflect the theme of redemption and growth, showcasing that it’s never too late to change one’s path. Natalie, Carmy’s sister, could also find her footing by taking on a crucial role in the business, perhaps overseeing operations and logistics. This would allow her to apply her organizational skills and bring a sense of balance to the chaotic environment of the restaurant. By establishing a strong foundation behind the scenes, she would help create a smoother workflow, enabling the kitchen team to focus on their craft. Her journey would reflect the importance of family bonds and the power of collaboration, as the siblings come together to honor their family legacy while forging their own identities. In conclusion, the perfect ending for *The Bear* would see Carmy, Sydney, Richie, and Natalie thriving in their respective roles, showcasing the transformative power of teamwork, resilience, and community support. This finale would celebrate the journey they’ve undertaken while emphasizing the importance of embracing change and honoring one’s roots. By weaving together personal and professional successes, the series would conclude on a note of optimism, leaving fans with a lasting impression of growth and the beauty of pursuing one’s passion.

Billie Eilish has established herself as one of the most influential artists of our time, and her music resonates with many listeners on profound levels. My top three Billie Eilish songs—“Ocean Eyes,” “When the Party’s Over,” and “Happier Than Ever”—speak to different aspects of my emotions and experiences, making them particularly impactful. **“Ocean Eyes”** was my introduction to Billie’s artistry, and it remains a standout for its haunting beauty. The ethereal production combined with Billie’s delicate vocals creates an atmosphere that feels both tranquil and deeply emotional. The lyrics, which speak of vulnerability and longing, resonate with my own experiences of young love and the complexity of feelings that come with it. There’s a raw honesty in the song that makes it easy to relate to, capturing the essence of those moments when you find yourself lost in someone’s gaze. Whenever I listen to “Ocean Eyes,” I am transported back to simpler times, evoking memories of innocence and exploration. Next on my list is **“When the Party’s Over.”** This song delves into the darker side of relationships and the aftermath of emotional turmoil. The minimalist instrumentation allows Billie’s voice to take center stage, amplifying the weight of her words. The line “Don’t you know I’m no good for you?” encapsulates the feeling of self-awareness that often comes with heartbreak. It resonates with me because it reflects moments in my life when I have had to confront my own flaws and the impact they have on my relationships. The song’s emotional depth and somber tone remind me that it’s okay to feel sadness and to acknowledge when something isn’t right. In a world that often encourages us to put on a brave face, this song serves as a poignant reminder that vulnerability is part of the human experience. Finally, **“Happier Than Ever”** is a powerful anthem about self-empowerment and reclaiming one’s voice. The song’s structure, transitioning from a soft, introspective beginning to a bold, explosive conclusion, mirrors the journey of finding strength after feeling small. The lyrics reflect the struggle of wanting to please others while ultimately realizing that one’s happiness must come first. This message resonates with me deeply, especially as I navigate the pressures of societal expectations and personal aspirations. The cathartic release in the latter half of the song allows me to feel empowered and inspired, reminding me that it’s okay to speak out and stand up for myself. Each of these songs reflects different facets of my emotional landscape, capturing feelings of love, vulnerability, self-doubt, and empowerment. Billie Eilish’s music has a unique ability to articulate complex emotions in a way that feels authentic and relatable. Her willingness to explore darker themes and her raw honesty in storytelling create a sense of connection that transcends superficiality. In conclusion, Billie Eilish’s music, particularly “Ocean Eyes,” “When the Party’s Over,” and “Happier Than Ever,” resonates with me because of its emotional depth and relatability. These songs remind me of the complexities of life—love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Through her artistry, Billie has created a safe space for listeners to embrace their feelings, and for that, I am grateful. Each song serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that it’s perfectly okay to navigate the highs and lows of life with authenticity and courage.

I am a fan of Wicked for many reasons, each rooted in its compelling story, memorable characters, and powerful themes. I was captivated by the musical’s unique take on the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz. It offers a fresh perspective on the characters we thought we knew, particularly Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. One of the most striking elements of Wicked is its exploration of friendship and the complexities that come with it. The relationship between Elphaba and Glinda is beautifully portrayed, showing how friendship can be both a source of strength and a cause of conflict. Their journey from schoolmates to rivals highlights the challenges of growing up and the choices we make that can alter the course of our lives. This dynamic resonates deeply with me, as it mirrors the ups and downs of real-life friendships. It serves as a reminder that people can change and evolve, often in ways we least expect. Additionally, Wicked challenges preconceived notions of good and evil. The musical invites us to question the narratives we’ve been fed about heroes and villains, showing that motivations are often more complex than they appear. Elphaba, who is labeled as "wicked," is portrayed with depth and nuance, compelling the audience to empathize with her struggles and understand her perspective. This theme of moral ambiguity is especially powerful, as it encourages us to consider the societal influences that shape our views of others. It prompts introspection about our own judgments and how they may be influenced by external factors. The music in Wicked is another reason for my admiration. With songs like "Defying Gravity" and "For Good," the score not only drives the narrative forward but also evokes a wide range of emotions. "Defying Gravity," in particular, has become an anthem for self-empowerment and liberation. The soaring melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply, inspiring listeners to embrace their individuality and break free from the constraints placed upon them by society. These moments in the musical have a way of staying with me long after the final curtain call, reminding me of the importance of staying true to oneself. Furthermore, the production value is nothing short of spectacular. The elaborate sets, stunning costumes, and innovative choreography all contribute to an immersive experience that transports the audience to the fantastical world of Oz. Each performance is a feast for the senses, making it an unforgettable experience. Watching the actors embody their roles with such passion and energy adds to the overall magic of the musical. Lastly, Wicked holds a special place in my heart due to its themes of empowerment and resilience. It celebrates the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of adversity. Elphaba’s journey is a powerful testament to the idea that one person can make a difference, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem. This message resonates with me and serves as a source of inspiration in my own life. It encourages me to pursue my passions and to be unafraid of standing out or challenging the status quo. In conclusion, my admiration for Wicked stems from its intricate storytelling, memorable characters, and powerful themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and moral complexity. The musical’s ability to inspire, challenge perceptions, and create a sense of community among its fans makes it truly special. Whether I’m listening to the soundtrack or recalling the incredible moments from a live performance, Wicked continues to leave a lasting impression on me, reminding me of the importance of understanding others, celebrating individuality, and standing up for what is right.

Chappell Roan’s music has had a profound impact on me, resonating with my own experiences and emotions while also offering a sense of connection and empowerment. As a rising star in the pop music scene, her unique sound and relatable lyrics create an atmosphere that is both refreshing and authentic. Supporting her career feels like not only championing a talented artist but also embracing the messages of self-acceptance and resilience that she consistently conveys through her work. One of the most compelling aspects of Chappell’s music is her ability to express vulnerability in a way that feels genuine and relatable. Her songs often explore themes of identity, love, and the struggles of growing up in a world that can be unforgiving. For example, tracks like “Kinky” and “Sad Song” tackle issues surrounding mental health and the complexities of relationships, which resonate deeply with many listeners. In a society where mental health discussions are becoming more prominent yet still often stigmatized, Chappell’s candid approach to these topics is incredibly refreshing. It reminds me that I am not alone in my struggles and that it’s okay to express my feelings openly. Chappell’s music also stands out for its catchy melodies and vibrant production, which create a sense of joy and celebration amidst the more serious subject matter. The upbeat nature of many of her tracks encourages me to embrace my own identity and live authentically, celebrating who I am without reservation. This duality of lightness and depth in her music is a testament to her artistry and is a big reason why I am such a fan. Moreover, Chappell Roan’s journey as an openly queer artist is significant in today’s music landscape. Representation matters, and seeing an artist like her flourish in the industry inspires me and many others to embrace our identities and pursue our passions. Her boldness in discussing her experiences as a queer woman not only paves the way for future artists but also fosters a sense of community among her fans. Supporting her career means standing up for representation and visibility in an industry that has historically marginalized voices like hers. Chappell Roan has built a strong connection with her audience through social media and live performances, often sharing personal anecdotes that make her relatable. This authenticity creates a sense of belonging and camaraderie among her supporters. As someone who values connection and community, I appreciate how she nurtures these relationships and makes her fans feel seen and heard. Chappell’s rise in the music industry has been nothing short of inspiring. Her hard work, dedication, and refusal to conform to traditional expectations have made her a role model for many young artists. She encourages us to stay true to ourselves and to pursue our dreams despite the obstacles we may face. Watching her journey unfold has motivated me to take my own aspirations seriously, reminding me that success is attainable if I remain committed and passionate. Chappell Roan’s music has impacted me on multiple levels, providing solace, joy, and inspiration. Her ability to blend vulnerability with infectious melodies, coupled with her advocacy for representation and authenticity, makes her an artist worth supporting. As she continues to grow and evolve in her career, I look forward to witnessing her impact on the music industry and the lives of her fans. Supporting Chappell is not just about celebrating her talent; it’s about embracing the powerful messages she shares and the sense of community she fosters through her art.

One of my favorite aspects of Minecraft is the creativity that comes with building and designing structures. While Minecraft is known for its survival mechanics, combat, and exploration, it’s the building element that resonates with me the most. The freedom to create anything I can imagine, from intricate castles to cozy cottages, offers a unique sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Building in Minecraft is like having a digital canvas where I can unleash my creativity. The game provides a vast array of blocks and materials, allowing me to experiment with different styles and designs. Whether I’m constructing a modern skyscraper, a medieval fortress, or a serene garden, the possibilities are virtually endless. I find it incredibly rewarding to start with a simple idea and watch it evolve into something grand and beautiful. Each structure I create carries a piece of my imagination and effort, which makes the experience feel personal and meaningful. What I particularly love about this aspect of the game is that it allows for self-expression. Minecraft doesn’t impose strict guidelines or limitations, which means I can tailor my creations to reflect my personality and preferences. For example, I might choose bright, vibrant colors for a whimsical build or opt for more subdued tones for a rustic farmhouse. This freedom to design and decorate according to my vision is exhilarating, and it’s an outlet for creativity that I might not find elsewhere. Building also encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. Each project presents its own set of challenges, whether it’s figuring out how to create a functional redstone contraption or ensuring that my structure fits harmoniously within the landscape. I often find myself brainstorming solutions and experimenting with different techniques, which keeps my mind engaged and active. This aspect of building adds an exciting layer of complexity, making the process not just about aesthetics but also about functionality and efficiency. Moreover, the sense of community in Minecraft enhances my love for building. Sharing my creations with friends or within online communities adds a social element that enriches the experience. I enjoy visiting other players’ builds and drawing inspiration from their designs, which often sparks new ideas for my own projects. The collaborative aspect of building, whether through multiplayer servers or social media, fosters a sense of camaraderie among players who share a passion for creativity. It’s a wonderful feeling to connect with others over our shared love for crafting unique spaces within the game. Building in Minecraft also serves as a form of escapism for me. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, immersing myself in the pixelated landscapes of Minecraft allows me to unwind and channel my energy into something positive. There’s something incredibly soothing about gathering resources, laying down blocks, and watching my vision come to life, especially after a long day. This therapeutic aspect of building makes it not just a pastime but a cherished hobby that brings me joy and relaxation. In conclusion, the building aspect of Minecraft holds a special place in my heart because it embodies creativity, self-expression, problem-solving, and community. It allows me to construct my own worlds, overcome challenges, and connect with others who share my passion. Every time I log in and start a new project, I’m reminded of the limitless possibilities that the game offers, and I eagerly look forward to the next adventure in my blocky universe.

One of my favorite athletes to cheer for on Team USA is Simone Biles. Her exceptional talent, resilience, and dedication to her sport make her an inspiring figure not just for gymnastics fans, but for anyone who values hard work and perseverance. Simone Biles has transformed the world of gymnastics with her incredible skill set and unmatched accomplishments. From the moment she burst onto the scene, it was clear that she was not just another gymnast; she was a force to be reckoned with. Biles has won multiple Olympic medals and World Championship titles, breaking records and setting new standards in the sport. Her signature moves, like the “Biles” vault, showcase not only her athleticism but also her creativity and willingness to push boundaries. Watching her perform is mesmerizing, as she seemingly defies gravity with each flip and twist. What truly sets Simone apart, however, is her remarkable resilience. Her journey has not been without its challenges. She has faced personal struggles, including her experiences as a survivor of abuse and the pressures of competing at the highest levels of sport. Despite these obstacles, she has continually found ways to rise above and advocate for mental health awareness. Her decision to prioritize her mental well-being during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, even stepping back from competitions to protect herself, was a courageous move that resonated with many. It’s a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially in high-pressure situations. Simone’s advocacy for mental health has had a significant impact on athletes and fans alike. By speaking out about her own struggles, she has encouraged others to acknowledge their challenges and seek help when needed. In a society where athletes are often expected to be invincible, Simone’s honesty about her vulnerabilities is refreshing and necessary. It has opened up conversations about the pressures athletes face and the importance of mental health support in sports. Beyond her athletic prowess and advocacy, what I admire most about Simone Biles is her ability to inspire the next generation. She serves as a role model for young athletes, especially young girls, showing them that they can aspire to greatness while also staying true to themselves. Through her work with initiatives like the “Simone Biles Foundation,” she has provided opportunities for underprivileged youth to participate in gymnastics and pursue their dreams. This commitment to giving back is a testament to her character and the values she upholds. Cheering for Simone Biles feels like cheering for someone who embodies resilience, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Her story goes beyond medals and accolades; it’s about using her platform to make a difference and inspire others. Each time she steps onto the mat, she does so not only as an athlete but as a beacon of hope and strength for many. In conclusion, Simone Biles is my favorite athlete on Team USA because of her incredible achievements, her bravery in addressing mental health, and her commitment to inspiring others. She represents the best of what sports can be—a platform for excellence, advocacy, and empowerment. Cheering for her is about celebrating not just her athletic success but also her profound impact on the world around her.

One of my favorite songs from Charlie XCX’s album brat is “Used to Know Me.” This track stands out for me not only because of its catchy beat but also because of the powerful emotions and relatable themes it explores. “Used to Know Me” encapsulates a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The lyrics resonate deeply, reflecting the experience of growing apart from someone who once played a significant role in your life. The song starts with a sense of nostalgia, as Charlie reminisces about the relationship and how it has changed over time. This theme of transformation is something many can relate to, especially during different phases of our lives. The realization that people grow and evolve is a bittersweet truth, and Charlie captures it beautifully in this song. Musically, the track is a perfect blend of pop and electronic elements, showcasing Charlie’s signature sound. The production is vibrant and energetic, making it impossible not to dance along. The upbeat tempo contrasts with the deeper emotional undertones of the lyrics, creating a captivating juxtaposition. This balance is one of the reasons I love Charlie XCX's music—she has a unique ability to infuse joy and empowerment into songs that touch on heavier themes. What I find particularly empowering about “Used to Know Me” is its message of reclaiming your identity. As the song progresses, Charlie’s lyrics shift from a sense of loss to an assertion of strength. She embraces the changes and recognizes that she is more than her past relationships. This is such an important message for anyone who has ever felt defined by someone else or struggled to find their place after a breakup. The chorus is an anthem of self-acceptance, reminding listeners that it’s okay to move on and focus on personal growth. Additionally, Charlie XCX's vocal delivery in this song is incredibly compelling. Her voice conveys a mix of vulnerability and confidence, making the listener feel the intensity of her emotions. She has a way of making her experiences feel universal, allowing fans to connect with her on a personal level. This authenticity is a hallmark of her artistry and is a big part of why I admire her. Beyond just the music, “Used to Know Me” serves as a reminder of the importance of self-love and the strength that comes from letting go of relationships that no longer serve us. It encourages listeners to embrace change and prioritize their own happiness. In a world where we often feel pressure to conform to societal expectations or hold onto the past, this song stands as a powerful declaration of independence and personal agency. Overall, “Used to Know Me” is a standout track on brat because of its infectious energy, relatable lyrics, and empowering message. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of growth and self-discovery that resonates with so many of us. Charlie XCX continues to inspire with her ability to blend personal experiences with broader themes of empowerment, making her music not only enjoyable but also meaningful.

I’ve been a fan of LeBron James for as long as I can remember, and my admiration goes beyond his incredible skills on the basketball court. LeBron represents what it means to be a complete athlete, a leader, and a role model, both for aspiring athletes and young people in general. His work ethic, commitment to excellence, and ability to elevate his teammates set him apart, and that’s why he’s become such an influential figure in the world of sports. When you look at LeBron’s career, it’s hard not to be impressed by his achievements. He has consistently been one of the best players in the league since he entered the NBA at just 18 years old. With multiple championships, MVP awards, and All-Star selections to his name, his stats speak for themselves. But what truly sets him apart is his versatility. LeBron can play and guard multiple positions, and his basketball IQ is off the charts. He sees the game in a way that few others can, making him a constant threat on both offense and defense. Beyond his physical talents, LeBron’s leadership is what really resonates with me. He has an innate ability to inspire those around him, whether it’s his teammates, coaches, or fans. He has a unique knack for making everyone better—on and off the court. His decision to return to Cleveland and bring a championship to a city that had been starved for one for decades is a testament to his character. It’s not just about winning games for LeBron; it’s about the legacy he leaves behind and the impact he can have on his community. That brings me to another reason why I’m a fan of LeBron: his commitment to social issues. He has used his platform to advocate for education, racial equality, and social justice. The opening of the I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, is a prime example of how he is giving back and making a difference in the lives of young people. It’s inspiring to see someone who is not just focused on personal glory but also dedicated to uplifting others. As for whether LeBron is the greatest basketball player of all time, that’s a debate that can spark endless discussions among basketball fans. Some will argue for Michael Jordan, citing his perfect Finals record and competitive drive. Others might point to Kobe Bryant or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. While each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game, I believe that LeBron’s combination of skill, longevity, and impact on the game makes a compelling case for him as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). LeBron’s ability to adapt his game over the years, maintain peak performance well into his 30s, and continue to make significant contributions to his teams is remarkable. He has not only changed the way basketball is played but has also changed the culture of the NBA, making it more inclusive and socially aware. In conclusion, I am a fan of LeBron James not just for his basketball prowess but for his leadership, philanthropy, and the positive influence he has on those around him. Whether or not he is the greatest basketball player of all time may vary based on personal opinions, but his impact on the game and society is undeniable. LeBron’s legacy goes far beyond the court, and that is why I truly admire him.

My name is Sandy Chi, and I am a passionate first-generation college student aspiring to become a software developer. I come from a low-income background, and my parents’ journey as immigrants has significantly influenced my perspective on education and opportunity. Growing up, I watched them navigate language barriers and cultural challenges while instilling in me the value of hard work and perseverance. Their sacrifices have motivated me to pursue my education diligently and to aspire to create positive change in my community through technology. With my background in computer science and a strong desire to tackle real-world problems, I aim to leverage my skills to contribute to food security and promote technological access for underserved communities. As I reflect on my career goals, I realize that my journey has been shaped by both the obstacles I've faced and the lessons learned from my family's experiences. My parents, who completed only a few years of grade school, had to work hard on their family farm before immigrating to the United States. Their dedication to learning, despite the challenges, has instilled in me a profound appreciation for education. This gratitude fuels my ambition to achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in my community. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons, internships, as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community. My fascination with computers grew as I began to understand the immense potential of coding to solve complex problems. I envision myself working on projects that not only push the boundaries of technology but also address pressing issues such as food security, which is critical in today’s world. Food security is a personal concern for me, influenced by my family’s background and the understanding that many individuals and families face similar struggles. I aim to use my computer science skills to develop innovative solutions that improve agricultural practices, analyze soil characteristics, and monitor air quality. By leveraging technology, I believe we can optimize crop yields, ensuring that communities have access to nutritious food. The intersection of technology and agriculture is where I see immense potential for growth and positive change, and I am eager to contribute to that movement. In addition to my technical aspirations, I am deeply committed to empowering others through education and mentorship. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of building a supportive network for women and non-binary individuals in technology. My goal is to be a mentor to those who are just starting their journey, sharing my experiences and knowledge to help them navigate the challenges of the tech industry. I believe that by fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment, we can enhance creativity and innovation within the field. Throughout my academic journey, I have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. Participating in hackathons, internships, and coding programs has not only honed my technical abilities but has also allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for technology. These experiences have reinforced my belief that collaboration and community are vital in driving meaningful change. I hope to cultivate an environment where aspiring technologists feel supported and empowered to pursue their dreams. As I continue my education, I am determined to apply my learning to real-world challenges. The world of technology is constantly evolving, and I am excited to be part of a field that holds the potential to transform lives. My career goals revolve around using technology to address critical issues, especially in underserved communities. By combining my technical skills with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals in these communities, I hope to create solutions that are both practical and impactful. In conclusion, my journey as a first-generation college student has shaped my aspirations and fueled my commitment to making a positive impact in my community. Through my chosen field of study in computer science, I aim to develop innovative solutions to pressing issues like food security while empowering others to pursue their interests in technology. I believe that by leveraging my education and experiences, I can contribute to a brighter future for all. My parents’ sacrifices and my personal experiences have instilled in me a strong sense of purpose, and I am excited to embark on this journey to make a difference.

I’ve been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter for years, not just because of her incredible talent but because of how relatable and authentic she is. What stands out to me the most is her versatility as an artist and how she’s grown throughout her career. From her early days on *Girl Meets World* to her blossoming music career, she’s shown that she’s more than just a performer—she’s an artist who isn’t afraid to evolve. Her music, especially, has had a huge impact on me. Albums like *Singular* and *Emails I Can’t Send* explore themes of self-discovery, heartbreak, and personal growth, which resonates deeply with me. Songs like “Skin” and “Nonsense” show both vulnerability and confidence, reminding me that it's okay to embrace all aspects of myself—the strong, the messy, and everything in between. Her lyrics are raw and honest, and that’s something I admire. They’re like little stories that make me reflect on my own experiences, especially navigating relationships and understanding who I am. What’s also inspiring about Sabrina is how she handles adversity. She’s faced public scrutiny, yet she’s never let that define her. Instead, she’s channeled those experiences into her music and used them as opportunities for growth. That resilience is something I really look up to. She’s shown me that even when life throws challenges your way, you can turn them into something beautiful. Beyond her music, Sabrina’s advocacy for mental health and her openness about the importance of self-care have influenced how I approach my own well-being. In a world that’s constantly pushing us to be “perfect,” she encourages authenticity and self-acceptance, which has been incredibly empowering for me. Sabrina Carpenter’s career is a reminder to me that growth is a continuous journey. Whether through her music or the way she carries herself, she’s taught me the importance of staying true to who you are, even when things get tough. That’s why I’m such a fan—she’s not just an entertainer, but a role model who’s helped shape how I see myself and the world around me.

The pursuit of higher education has been shaped by challenges rooted in my family’s background and immigrant experience. My parents, having grown up in a rural environment with limited access to education, were forced to abandon school at an early age to work on their family’s farm. When they immigrated to the U.S., they faced the daunting task of learning English while navigating an unfamiliar culture. Their sacrifices taught me the value of education, but it also meant that I had to take on responsibilities at a young age to help them communicate and adapt to our new life. As a child, I struggled with English myself. In the first grade, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes because I couldn’t fully understand or express myself in the language. This barrier made me feel disconnected from my peers and teachers, and I often felt lost in class. However, over time, I worked hard to overcome this obstacle. As I became more proficient in English, my world expanded. I could participate more fully in school, help my parents with translations, and engage with the broader community. This experience ignited in me a deep passion for learning and personal growth. Despite the challenges of balancing academic pursuits with my family’s needs, I remained committed to my education. I took rigorous courses, participated in STEM programs, and ultimately graduated as salutatorian of my high school. My parents’ sacrifices, combined with my drive to succeed, have instilled in me a strong work ethic and an unwavering dedication to continuous learning. Looking ahead, I plan to use my education in computer science to address real-world problems, particularly in the area of food security. By developing programs that analyze soil and air quality, I hope to improve agricultural yields and contribute to sustainable farming practices. Additionally, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I’m committed to mentoring others, especially women and non-binary individuals, to pursue their interests in technology. By giving back through mentorship and using my skills to solve pressing issues, I aim to create a lasting positive impact in my community and beyond. The determination to overcome adversity and a passion for continuous learning have shaped my identity and drive me to tackle new challenges. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I now have the opportunity to mentor others, sharing the knowledge and resilience I’ve gained. My journey as an immigrant has taught me that with hard work and persistence, any dream is within reach, no matter the obstacles.

If I were to build an ideal bookshelf inspired by #BookTok recommendations, it would be filled with a mix of heart-wrenching contemporary fiction, gripping fantasy series, and deeply personal coming-of-age stories. #BookTok has been a driving force in catapulting certain books into the spotlight, introducing readers to must-have titles that have had a profound impact on both the reading community and popular culture. At the top of the shelf would be *The Song of Achilles* by Madeline Miller. This modern retelling of the Iliad has captured the hearts of readers everywhere. It’s not just a love story between Achilles and Patroclus; it’s a tale of friendship, honor, and the brutal consequences of war. The emotional depth of the characters and the lyrical prose have made this book a #BookTok favorite. Readers have taken to TikTok to post tearful reactions, and many claim it has changed their perception of Greek mythology forever. It’s a book that invites readers to feel deeply, and its themes of love and loss resonate strongly with the #BookTok community. Another essential book for my bookshelf is *It Ends With Us* by Colleen Hoover. Colleen Hoover’s novels have experienced an explosive rise in popularity, and this particular title has sparked countless discussions about difficult topics like domestic abuse and toxic relationships. The emotional weight of Lily’s journey has led readers to post raw, honest reflections on their own lives, making it a book that not only entertains but also opens up space for important conversations. Hoover’s ability to tackle heavy subject matter in a relatable way has cemented her place as one of the most discussed authors on #BookTok. No #BookTok-inspired shelf would be complete without *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo* by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This book has become iconic, with its exploration of fame, identity, and the complexities of love. Reid’s storytelling is masterful, weaving together the story of a fictional Hollywood starlet with broader themes of self-acceptance and authenticity. *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo* has sparked endless fan theories, debates, and even calls for a film adaptation, showing just how impactful it has been within the #BookTok sphere. On the fantasy side, *A Court of Thorns and Roses* by Sarah J. Maas is a must-have. This fantasy series is filled with romance, political intrigue, and a richly built world that has captivated readers. #BookTok has been instrumental in reigniting interest in fantasy novels, with Maas’ series leading the charge. The fandom around this book is immense, and readers often dive deep into analyzing its complex characters and intricate plot twists. The impact of *A Court of Thorns and Roses* goes beyond just the story—it has cultivated a dedicated online community that bonds over shared love for the series. Finally, I would add *The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue* by V.E. Schwab, a book that beautifully explores the idea of legacy, memory, and what it means to be truly seen. Addie LaRue’s struggle to make an impact in a world where no one remembers her has struck a chord with readers, particularly on #BookTok. The themes of loneliness and self-discovery are universal, making this book a deeply personal read for many. These titles have not only captured the attention of readers but have also shaped the #BookTok community by sparking conversations, fostering emotional connections, and building fandoms. Each of these books has left a mark on the community, proving that literature can be both a shared and intensely personal experience.

As a first-generation low income college student and a child of parents with limited formal education, the path to success has always been marked by challenges. My parents' journey to education was long and fraught with obstacles, as they had to travel great distances to school and eventually leave formal education behind to work on their families' farms. After immigrating to the United States, they began learning English—a process that continues to this day. Their sacrifices and perseverance have been a guiding force in my life, but the road has not been easy. One of the first challenges I encountered was in the first grade when I was placed in the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. Growing up, I had only a basic knowledge of English, and I struggled to understand my teachers and express myself. It was frustrating to see other children participate easily in class while I remained quiet, unsure how to convey my thoughts. This language barrier made me feel isolated and held back from fully engaging in my education. My parents, despite their own struggles with English, encouraged me to keep pushing forward, emphasizing the importance of education, something they were unable to fully pursue themselves. Over time, I worked hard to learn English, and once I was able to understand and speak it fluently, my world changed. The frustration of not understanding was replaced by the joy of being able to communicate and connect with others. I could help my parents with conversations and translate for them, which gave me a sense of pride and responsibility. The experience of overcoming the language barrier fueled my desire to keep learning, to explore new topics, and to take advantage of every educational opportunity that came my way. However, the challenges didn’t end there. As I progressed through school, I faced the constant pressure of balancing my academic goals with the responsibilities that come with being the child of immigrants. My parents’ sacrifices motivated me to excel, but there were moments when the weight of their expectations and my own desire to succeed felt overwhelming. Despite these obstacles, I remained focused on my education, determined to honor the opportunities they had fought so hard to give me. Through perseverance and a strong work ethic, I graduated as salutatorian of my high school class, maintained perfect attendance, and joined the National Honor Society. Alongside my academic success, I became deeply involved in extracurricular activities, including computer science clubs and STEM programs. My journey has not only taught me the value of education but has instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility to give back to my community. Today, I apply the lessons learned from these early struggles to my pursuit of a career in software development. The determination to overcome adversity and a passion for continuous learning have shaped my identity and drive me to tackle new challenges. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I now have the opportunity to mentor others, sharing the knowledge and resilience I’ve gained. My journey as an immigrant has taught me that with hard work and persistence, any dream is within reach, no matter the obstacles.

If my year so far had a soundtrack, songs from *1989 (Taylor's Version)* that would definitely make the cut are “Clean” and “Wildest Dreams.” Both tracks resonate deeply with the themes of growth, self-reflection, and embracing the uncertainty of life, which have shaped my experiences this year. First, “Clean” stands out because it’s about healing and finally breaking free from something that once weighed heavily. This year, I’ve worked through personal challenges that felt like they were clouding my perspective. Whether it was letting go of old habits, relationships, or mindsets that no longer served me, I’ve experienced a sort of emotional “detox.” In “Clean,” Taylor sings about how time can be the ultimate healer, even when it feels like you’ll never find clarity again. The line “The drought was the very worst, when the flowers that we’d grown together died of thirst” speaks to the realization that sometimes you have to go through tough times to clear out the emotional baggage and make room for new growth. This year has been a lot like that—clearing space for better things to come. On the other hand, “Wildest Dreams” captures the bittersweet nature of nostalgia, reminding me of moments when I knew something was fleeting, but still wanted to hold onto it. There have been relationships and experiences this year that I knew, deep down, weren’t going to last forever, but they were meaningful while they lasted. The line, “Say you’ll remember me, standing in a nice dress, staring at the sunset, babe” encapsulates those moments you want to freeze in time, even though you know they’re temporary. It’s that longing to be remembered, even if the connection is destined to fade. This song is all about embracing the intensity of the moment, knowing that even if it doesn’t last forever, it’s still worth experiencing fully. I’ve tried to live more in the present this year, enjoying what’s in front of me without worrying too much about where it’s all headed. Together, “Clean” and “Wildest Dreams” reflect the emotional highs and lows I’ve navigated. One song speaks to finding clarity and closure, while the other embraces the beauty of impermanence. Both have been part of my personal soundtrack because they’ve helped me make sense of the transitions I’ve gone through—letting go of what’s passed and savoring the moments, even when they’re fleeting. Taylor Swift’s ability to capture these emotions in her lyrics makes these songs perfect for the year I’ve had, full of growth, reflection, and the realization that even the most temporary experiences can have lasting meaning.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in CS, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons, internships, as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community. For example, with my knowledge in computer science, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. Just like how a plant requires certain things to grow, humans require basic needs to survive, food, water, and shelter. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one must experience being hungry unwillingly. My goal is to apply my education to solve real world problems, such as food security. In addition, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. Ever since I can remember, my family qualifies for Medicaid, fee waivers on SAT and ACT, and free school meals. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of becoming a software developer. I know that my academic and career goals will motivate me in life to keep persisting and are worthy of consideration for this scholarship. Awarding this scholarship will make a great contribution to my study in computer science as it will allow me to focus my attention on my studies. I’ll be able to continue with my academic achievements as I dedicate my time to my studies and taking on numerous internships with the Rivera-Gulley First-Gen Scholarship Award.

Leadership is a core part of who I am, as seen being the team captain for varsity’s girls’ tennis team, president of Mastermind’s club (along with being the team captain for the varsity team), treasurer for class officers, and salutatorian. As a leader, I am committed to being a team member for every community I am part of and contributing towards the goal of making a positive impact on my community. As treasurer, I plan extensively fundraising events and execute them successfully to raise money for class events. For example, last minute, we were notified that we were allowed to host a cider x donut sale for the Halloween Fright Festival. Spurring on this information, I took charge of organizing the fundraising event. I quickly reached out to local vendors to see if we would get a discount for ciders or donuts. After calling several shops, but to no avail, I resorted to ordering online. I placed an order, noting the pickup time and planning the best route for the vice president to pick up all the items. Next, I messaged the class officers group chat to get several volunteers to help at the event. After the event, we sold a total of 4 gallons of apple cider and 6 dozen donuts, raising approximately $100 in profit in 4 hours! The money we raise is used towards creating bonding events for our class for everyone to take part in without worrying about affordability. From these events, I learned that I enjoy planning things out to great details, and I prioritize organization, punctuality, and efficiency. This showed me that I thrive in a fast-paced environment and can collaborate efficiently in a group whether as a member following my assigned roles or taking charge as a leader and distributing tasks for others to collectively carry out large feats. By working together well with others, we can accomplish more, and larger, accomplishments rather than if we were to individually. As part of class officers, I have networked with many individuals and organizations which opened many opportunities for me to bond with my community, such as speaking at numerous Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school and volunteering at the local hospital weekly. Holding numerous leadership positions has made me a better communication, leader, and adapter, all are vital skills that I highly value. My core values, learner, leader, and community are fundamental to who I am and influence my world view. This past summer was filled with numerous opportunities to grow and learn new knowledge, such as through the Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program which is dedicated to closing the gender gap in the computer science field. Now, as a member of the GWC Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. As I continue being a leader, I am determined to be a mentor to others, increase diversity, and make a positive impact on my community.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons, internships, as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community. For example, with my knowledge in computer science, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. Just like how a plant requires certain things to grow, humans require basic needs to survive, food, water, and shelter. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one must experience being hungry unwillingly. My goal is to apply my education to solve real world problems, such as food security. In addition, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society.

What could go wrong? Well, anything. We cannot predict what exactly will happen, but we can use our existing knowledge to make informed decisions to somewhat control the outcome of our future. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. Plenty of things could have gone wrong. What if I was an outcast and could not fit in? What if I did not have the knowledge to succeed in the Helpdesk? What if I ended up not enjoying the club? However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. I did not care if I was not one of the majorities, I was fine being one of the only females. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons, internships, as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community. What could go wrong? Well, Earth will one day be unable to feed the growing human population. People could be extremely malnourished. In fact, we already saw in 2022 that approximately 9% of people are affected by hunger, an increase from the 8% reported in 2019. With my knowledge in computer science, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. Just like how a plant requires certain things to grow, humans require basic needs to survive, food, water, and shelter. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one must experience being hungry unwillingly. My goal is to apply my education to solve real world problems, such as food security. While I can not predict what exactly will happen in the next hundred of years, I know my hardworking preserving nature will ensure me to commit to making a positive impact on a global scale by provide stability and reliability.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons, internships, as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community. For example, with my knowledge in computer science, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. Just like how a plant requires certain things to grow, humans require basic needs to survive, food, water, and shelter. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one must experience being hungry unwillingly. My goal is to apply my education to solve real world problems, such as food security. In addition, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society.

Being involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including being a member and captain of the Girl’s Varsity team, has made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter, all of which are vital skills. Since joining tennis after the pandemic, I have worked hard to improve my abilities. Despite losing many matches, I always looked forward to my teammates and coach pointing out my mistakes and weakness and teaching me methods to overcome them. In addition, I seek help from resources online in order to improve my techniques. With their aid, along with my determination to progress, I have seen significant improvements in my performance. With that being said, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of my teammates and coach, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. As part of tennis, I have experienced playing singles and doubles. From singles, I have learned a sense of independence while from doubles I learned a sense of teamwork and have improved my communication skills. By working together well with any of my teammates, I have felt a stronger sense of team. No matter which matches my coach has assigned me, I know that I am responsible for the outcome of the match. This has shown me the importance of taking ownership of my actions. When I missed a shot, I analyze the reason behind it, whether it be my timing, my speed, or my swing, I know I will need to focus on not making that mistake the next time. If I was not able to reach the ball in time, I know that the next time, I will need to run faster the next time. There is a constant need for improvements in my skills. Additionally, it shows that I am aware of my shortcomings and highlights that I am ready to fix them and improve myself.

One of the lyrics from Olivia Rodrigo's album ‘GUTS’ that particularly resonates with my own teenage experience is from the song "Vampire," where she sings, "Went for me and not her / 'Cause girls your age know better." This line captures the tumultuous nature of teenage relationships, the pain of betrayal, and the intense emotions that accompany young love. Adolescence is a period marked by heightened emotions and the search for identity. The lyric "Went for me and not her / 'Cause girls your age know better" reflects the insecurity and confusion that often accompany teenage relationships. During these years, individuals are navigating their own self-worth while trying to understand the intentions and feelings of others. The line suggests a sense of betrayal and self-doubt, common themes in the teenage experience. This lyric resonates deeply with my own teenage years, a time when relationships felt like the center of the universe. Every interaction was laden with significance, and the fear of rejection or betrayal was ever-present. The line speaks to the vulnerability that comes with opening oneself up to another person, only to be hurt by their actions. The comparison between oneself and another girl, implied by "girls your age know better," underscores the insecurity that many teenagers feel. It's a reminder of the constant self-evaluation and the nagging question of whether one is good enough. The essence of adolescence is captured in this lyric through its portrayal of raw, unfiltered emotions. Teenagers often experience emotions in their most intense form, and the pain of betrayal can feel overwhelming. The line encapsulates the heartbreak and confusion of realizing that someone you trusted has chosen to be with someone else. It also touches on the theme of self-blame, as the speaker implies that she should have known better, highlighting the internal struggle of self-worth and the tendency to internalize the actions of others. Furthermore, the lyric speaks to the social dynamics of teenage life. Peer comparison is a significant aspect of adolescence, where individuals constantly measure themselves against their peers. The reference to "girls your age" reflects the competitive nature of teenage relationships, where validation often comes from being chosen over someone else. This can lead to a damaging cycle of comparison and self-doubt, as teenagers strive to meet perceived standards of attractiveness and desirability. In my own teenage experience, I vividly remember the intensity of my first heartbreak and the feelings of inadequacy that followed. Like the lyric, I questioned why I wasn't enough and compared myself to others, wondering what they had that I lacked. These emotions are universal in the teenage experience, where every setback feels monumental, and every slight can leave a lasting impact. Olivia Rodrigo's "Vampire" captures the essence of adolescence by delving into the emotional complexities of teenage relationships. The lyric "Went for me and not her / 'Cause girls your age know better" poignantly expresses the vulnerability, insecurity, and intense emotions that define this stage of life. It serves as a reminder that adolescence is a time of profound emotional growth, where the challenges of young love and the search for identity often collide in a whirlwind of feelings. In conclusion, the lyric from "Vampire" encapsulates the essence of adolescence by highlighting the raw emotions and internal struggles that accompany teenage relationships. It resonates with the universal experience of heartbreak and self-doubt, reminding us of the intense and often tumultuous nature of young love. Through this lyric, Olivia Rodrigo captures the vulnerability and complexity of adolescence, offering a poignant reflection on the challenges that come with growing up.

The path to education for my parents was a long and continuous one. My parents had to travel very far to school and have only completed some grade school education. After completing some years in school, they had to stop to help on their parents’ farm. After immigrating to the US, they learned English, a continuous learning still occurring now. As a result, as a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English therefore struggled understanding my teachers and classmates, was unable to articulate my thoughts, and had difficulty completing assignments. As a result, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Using this event as motivation, I was dedicated to learning English, with the continued help of my teachers. Even though I stumbled numerous times over the pronunciation of complicated words, such as "eye", or confused over homophones, such as "right" and "write", I stay committed to overcoming my adversity. During that year, I read all the books in the brightly colored bins out on the wooden rack in my classroom during reading time to test my proficiency. As I closed the last book, I felt overjoyed knowing I understood all the words said. I was able to help my parents converse with others, hold conversations, and understand what was said while watching movies. I began checking out books from the local library, stepping up from the simple books, moving up to the 2nd-3rd grade books. I implored over the Magic Tree House Series, laughed at the Judy B. Jones Series, and investigated the crimes along with Dink, Josh, and Ruth in the A-to-Z Mysteries Series. Since overcoming the language barrier, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. From my upbringing stemmed my strong work ethic as my parents have taught me the importance of education, making sure I attend school daily. Due to my unwavering dedication, I have been able to get into the National Honor Society, maintain a perfect attendance streak, and graduate as salutatorian of a class of 216 students all while being involved in numerous extracurriculars activities and volunteering in the community. My intense desire to know, to absorb the vast knowledge surrounding me is what defines me. Overcoming the language barrier fueled my hunger for knowledge and pursuit of higher education. To anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is to approach adversity with a mindset of perseverance. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from others who may have more experience or expertise. Remember that setbacks are a natural part of the journey, and overcoming them often leads to personal and professional growth. Embrace the challenge, learn from it, and let it drive you toward greater achievements. In essence, adversity, while challenging, can be a powerful catalyst for personal development. By facing difficulties with determination and a willingness to adapt, we not only overcome obstacles but also emerge more resilient and capable.

The path to education for my parents was a long and continuous one. My parents had to travel very far to school and have only completed some grade school education. After completing some years in school, they had to stop to help on their parents’ farm. After immigrating to the US, they learned English, a continuous learning still occurring now. As a result, as a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggle understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts. Thus, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. I was able to help my parents converse with others, hold conversations with others, and fully understand each word said. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. I am excited to pursue higher level education this coming fall as a female majoring in computer science. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one must experience being hungry unwillingly. With my knowledge in computer science, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. I am inspired by William Griggs and his commitment to promoting education and research in science and math, as well as his dedication to advancing knowledge and promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. Receiving the William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math would provide me with the financial support necessary to continue my education and utilize it to make a positive impact globally while also allowing me to expand my outreach efforts and inspire more young girls and underrepresented groups to pursue their dreams in STEM.

I believe in giving back to your community and contributing to a more influential community is very important for self-development. I have helped at the Rochester General Hospital once a week, for 3 hours since December 2022 in various units to assist hospital staff with any non-medical tasks. The feeling of helping others in my community is comforting as I know I am making someone’s day brighter. I will never forget the feeling of giving back to my community, thus I plan to continue volunteering at least once a week, no matter how busy life gets. My core values, learner, leader, and community are fundamental to who I am and influence my world view. With extreme weather conditions, contaminated water, and poverty, people around the world are unable to produce enough food to sustain a household, never mind a population. With that being said, it has been my goal to start a non-profit dedicated to solving world hunger. To target this issue, I plan to start multiple community gardens regionally and eventually expand worldwide. I plan to impart knowledge to the people nearby while also donating the produce to the locals. Therefore, the community can self-sustain and teach the generations after them well after the time has come for us to leave the fostering community in search for another community to teach. Additionally, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. In addition, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society by sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned to others. This past summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program which teaches women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the GWC Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other minorities discover and pursue their interests in computer science. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth.

I’m not sure who started it first, but I remember hitting another kid with plastic blocks after he hit me and we continued to tap back and forth, neither side backing down until we were intervened by our teacher. She asked me in a stern voice, “Did you hit him on accident or on purpose? I did not know what either “accident” nor “purpose” meant, but I did know that “A” came before “P”, so as a child, I reasoned that “accident” is be a better word to respond with compared to “purpose”. After all, first is the best, second is the worst. At the brink of tears, knowing that I was being scolded, I replied with “accident”. And it was true, it was not on purpose. Regardless, I, along with the kid, was sent to the Principal Office. As a young child, I did not understand much of what was said to me. My parents both immigrated to the United States and did not speak English. As a result, I did not speak proficient English, and only understood basic terms. I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. I had to overcome the challenge of not speaking English and was unable to articulate my thoughts clearly to others. Using the event as motivation, I purposefully learned English, with the continued help of my the teacher. During that year, I read all the books in the brightly colored bins out on the wooden rack during reading time to test my proficiency. As I closed the last book, I felt overjoyed knowing I understood all the words said. I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. I was able to help my parents converse with others, hold conversations, and understand what was said while watching movies. I began checking out books from the local library, stepping up from the simple books, moving up to the 2nd-3rd grade books. I implored over the Magic Tree House Series, laughed at the Judy B. Jones Series, and investigated the crimes along with Dink, Josh, and Ruth in the A-to-Z Mysteries Series. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Ever since I can remember, my family qualifies for Medicaid, fee waivers on SAT and ACT, and free school meals. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of majoring in computer science and becoming a software developer dedicated to being a force of positive change. I know that my academic and career goals will motivate me in life to keep persisting and are worthy of consideration for this scholarship.

As a child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggled understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts as English was not spoken in my household. Thus, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in information technology, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community as I apply my knowledge to solve global issues. For example, to target the issue food insecurity, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, I could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. I am excited to be able to apply my knowledge in order to make a positive impact on my community. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of becoming a software developer for NY. Awarding this scholarship will make a great contribution to my study in computer science as it will allow me to focus my attention on my studies.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community as I apply my knowledge to solve global issues. For example, to target the issue food insecurity, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, I could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. This past summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in accounting through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally and professionally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and one day create a business dedicated to making a positive impact on my community as we apply our knowledge to solve global issues. For example, to target the issue food insecurity, our business could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. My businesses would be dedicated to continuously work hard to make a positive impact one person at a time. Leadership is a core part of who I am, as seen being the team captain for varsity’s girls’ tennis team, president of Mastermind’s club (along with being the team captain for the varsity team), treasurer for class officers. As class treasurer I have planned numerous successful fundraising events with my peers and advisors to raise money for class events. For example, last minute, we were notified that we were allowed to host a cider x donut sale for the Halloween Fright Festival. Spurring on this information, I quickly reached out to local vendors to see if we would get a discount for ciders or donuts. After calling several shops, but to no avail, I resorted to ordering online. With the carefully selected products, I placed an order, noting the pickup time and planning the best route to pick up all the items. We sold a total of 4 gallons of apple cider and 6 dozen donuts, raising approximately $100 in profit in 4 hours! From these events, I learned that I prioritize organization, punctuality, and efficiency. This showed me that I thrive in a fast-paced environment and can collaborate efficiently in a group. As part of class officers, I have networked with many individuals and organizations which opened many opportunities for me, such as speaking at numerous Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school. Holding numerous leadership positions has made me a better communication, leader, and adapter, all are vital skills that I highly value.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in information technology, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community as I apply my knowledge to solve global issues. For example, to target the issue food insecurity, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, I could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. I am dedicated to continuously work hard towards reaching my goals of making a positive impact one person at a time. This past summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology field through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally and professionally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society.

Clink. Clank. Clang. The rhythmic echoing sounds of the steel chuan (spatula) and hoak (ladle) cooking the food in the wok by the chefs in the kitchen. The aromatic smell lingering in the air of the stuffy kitchen. That is the nostalgic memory of my childhood and continues to be the sound I hear everywhere. The fast-paced environment of the kitchen is still with me even when I am out of the restaurant as I’ve grown accustomed to hearing it. For as long as I can remember, the restaurant has been where I have spent most of my time. Every day after school, on weekends, and during the summer, I have helped at my parents’ restaurant since I was a young child. I quickly picked up on the functioning well-oiled system that my parents run, starting with taking customer’s order, cooking food, packing orders, to being able to manage the system on my own as my parents step out to run errands. Growing up in this setting, I had to balance assisting at the restaurant, academic studies, extracurricular activities, sport commitment, and volunteering. This has taught me the value of responsibility, communication, time-management, and sacrifice. My upbringing motivates me to continuously work hard towards reaching my goals of making a positive impact one person at a time. The path to education for my parents was a long and continuous one. My parents had to travel very far to school and have only completed some grade school education. After completing some years in school, they had to stop to help on their parents’ farm. After immigrating to the US, they learned English, a continuous learning still occurring now. As a result, as a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggle understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts. Thus, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. I was able to help my parents converse with others, hold conversations with others, and fully understand each word said. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. This past summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other women and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in technology field through participation in summit to sharing my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally and professionally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in information technology, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact on my community as I apply my knowledge to solve global issues. For example, to target the issue food insecurity, I could code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, I could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people.

As a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggled understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts as English was not spoken in my household. Therefore, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up as I was able to fully understand each word said. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in computer science, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to making a positive impact in my community by applying my knowledge to solve issues globally. Over the summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally and professionally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. My intense desire to know, to absorb the vast knowledge surrounding me is what defines me. Growing up in the restaurant fueled my hunger for knowledge and pursuit of higher education. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of becoming a software developer.

I believe in giving back to your community and contributing to a more influential community is very important for self-development. I have helped at the Rochester General Hospital once a week, for 3 hours since December 2022 in various units to assist hospital staff with any non-medical tasks. As, I restock gloves and masks, bring blood samples to the Microbiology Lab, discharge patients, show guests to their destination, converse with patients and guests, and bring dfood, drinks, or other items to patients, I am overjoyed knowing that I am supporting my community, and I am making someone’s day brighter. Giving back to my community provides me a sense of fulfillment as I am making a positive impact therefore, I plan to continue volunteering at least once a week indefinitely, no matter how busy life gets. As a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggled understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts due to the lack of English spoken in my household. Therefore, I was placed in ESOL in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. I was able to hold conversations with others, and fully understand each word said. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. This past summer, I took a Big Data for Big Policy Problems at eCornell where I was tasked with presenting complex data in a visually engaging and comprehensible manner to uncover insights related to real world problems. Inspired by the systematic approach engineers take when designing solutions, I proposed applying data visualization techniques commonly used in engineering projects. First, I identified the key data points and trends within the provided data. This step mirrored the process of defining objectives and gathering materials. Next, drawing from principles of user design, I brainstormed various visualizations methods to effectively communicate the insights founds. I considered factors such as audience comprehension, aesthetics, and accessibility. These steps required understanding R code needed for such features to show. In RStudio, I crafted charts, graphs, and interactive maps and ensured that the correct data was used for this project. Just as engineers understand how things function, I tested different lines of code to understand the output it provided. I continuously revised the visualizations based on feedback and testing, ensuring clarity and accuracy, like how engineers iterate on prototypes to refine their design. By embracing a systematic approach to problem solving, I transformed raw data into a compelling presentation. The engineering mindset empowered me to tackle challenges beyond my existing knowledge. Not only has this application allowed me to expand my academic horizons, but also, I have cultivated a mindset around constant innovation, learning, and adaptability which dictated my excitement in pursuing a major in computer science. As I continue to pursue my academic and professional endeavors, I embrace the principles of engineering mindset to guide me toward meaningful contributions and impactful solutions.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Ever since I can remember, math has always been my favorite subject. The satisfaction after solving a problem motivates me to keep applying my knowledge and use critical thinking to find the answer. Not only does my passion for the field propel me to success in information security, but my goal of becoming a software developer furthermore fuels me. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to a community’s success. I am excited to keep working hard and continuously striving for my career goals. Over the summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. As a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of becoming a software developer. I know that my academic and career goals will motivate me in life to keep persisting and are worthy of consideration for this scholarship. Awarding this scholarship will make a great contribution to my study in computer science as it will allow me to focus my attention on my studies. Furthermore, I’ll be able to continue with my academic achievements as I dedicate my time to my studies and taking on numerous internships. Success to me is being able to have a positive impact on others and on yourself by doing the things you enjoy doing.

The path to education for my parents was a long and continuous one. My parents had to travel very far to school and have only completed some grade school education. After completing some years in school, they had to stop to help on their parents’ farm. After immigrating to the US, they learned English, a continuous learning still occurring now. As a result, as a young child, I only had basic knowledge of English, struggle understanding my teachers, and was unable to articulate my thoughts. Thus, I was placed in English to Speakers of Other Languages in first grade. Once I was able to understand English, I could not help but notice the world around me brightening up. I was able to help my parents converse with others, hold conversations with others, and fully understand each word said. Since then, I have always been interested in absorbing the vast knowledge surrounding me. Even after taking numerous rigorous courses and several summer programs, I am still amazed how much more knowledge there is that I have not yet uncovered. Being an advocate learner is a core part of who I am. I truly believe that to have a fulfilling life, one must always stay curious and dedicate one’s life to continuous learning. Though my parents were not educated beyond grade school, I drew inspiration from their sacrifice of education. They have bestowed upon me a deep gratitude for my community, a passion for learning, and the spirit to pursue my goals. From my upbringing stemmed my strong work ethic as my parents have taught me the importance of education, making sure I attend school daily. Due to my unwavering dedication, I have been able to get into the National Honor Society, hold numerous leadership roles; such as treasurer for class officers, captain of Varsity Girl’s Tennis Team, President of Mastermind, and Leader of Team 1 for Mastermind, maintain a perfect attendance streak, and retain a 4.0 GPA all while being involved in numerous extracurriculars activities and volunteering in the community. My intense desire to know, to absorb the vast knowledge surrounding me is what defines me. Growing up in the restaurant fueled my hunger for knowledge and pursuit of higher education. Ever since I can remember, my family qualifies for Medicaid, fee waivers on SAT and ACT, and free school meals. Despite being low income, I am excited to be a first-generation student and pursue my dream of becoming a software developer. Awarding this scholarship will make a great contribution to my study in computer science as it will allow me to focus my attention on my studies. Furthermore, receiving this scholarship will grant me more opportunities to attend technology-related conferences to learn new knowledge while also spreading my own knowledge. This scholarship will help me achieve my educational and career goals as I’ll be able to continue with my academic achievements as I dedicate my time to my studies and taking on numerous internships.

Clink. Clank. Clang. The rhythmic echoing sounds of the steel chuan (spatula) and hoak (ladle) cooking the food in the wok by the chefs in the kitchen. The aromatic smell lingering in the air of the stuffy kitchen. That is the nostalgic memory of my childhood and continues to be the sound I hear everywhere. The fast-paced environment of the kitchen is still with me even when I am out of the restaurant as I’ve grown accustomed to hearing it. For as long as I can remember, the restaurant has been where I have spent the majority of my time since I was a young child. I quickly picked up on the different roles in the restaurant, starting with taking customer’s order, then advancing to cooking food, packing orders, to being able to manage the system on my own as my parents step out to run errands. This has taught me the value of responsibility, communication, time-management, and sacrifice. Growing up in the restaurant fueled my hunger for knowledge and pursuit of higher education. I am involved in numerous extracurricular activities, such as holding captain of the Girl’s Varsity team, president of Mastermind’s club (along with being the team captain for the varsity team), treasurer for class officers, all while maintaining academic excellence and the desire to give back to my community. After coming back from the pandemic, I wasted no time in joining clubs, sports, and volunteering activities. In November of 2022, I started to volunteer weekly at the Rochester General Hospital and since then, have been a part of various units to assist hospital staff with any non-medical tasks. The feeling of helping others in my community is comforting as I know I am making a positive impact on someone’s life which is the reason why I plan to continue giving back to my community at least once a week, no matter how busy life gets. Being a member, and then later, the captain of the Girl’s Varsity Tennis has made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter, all of which are vital skills. Since joining tennis after the pandemic, I have worked hard to improve my abilities. Despite losing many matches, I always looked forward to my teammates and coach pointing out my mistakes and weakness and teaching me methods to overcome them. In addition, I seek help from resources online in order to improve my techniques. With their aid, along with my determination to progress, I have seen significant improvements in my performance. Over the summer, I participated in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program a summer program dedicated to teaching women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games. As a member of the GWC Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me both personally, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. My core values, learner, leader, and community are fundamental to who I am and influence my world view ensuring that I continue to make a positive impact on my surrounding.

During high school, I have involved in numerous extracurricular activities, such as holding captain of the Girl’s Varsity team, president of Mastermind’s club (along with being the team captain for the varsity team), treasurer for class officers, all while maintaining academic excellence and the desire to give back to my community. As part of class officers, I have networked with many individuals and organizations which opened many opportunities for me, such as speaking at numerous Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school. Being a class officer has made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter. Ultimately, I want to be a strong role model for other young women who may have been afraid to use their voices. Thus, I want to pursue a major in computer science. After coming back from the pandemic, I wasted no time in joining clubs, sports, and volunteering activities. In November 2022, I started to volunteer weekly at the Rochester General Hospital and since then, have been a part of various units to assist hospital staff with any non-medical tasks. The feeling of helping others in my community is comforting as I know I am making a positive impact on someone’s life which is the reason why I plan to continue giving back to my community at least once a week, no matter how busy life gets. I am determined to start a charity to target the issue regarding food security. With extreme weather conditions, contaminated water, and poverty, people around the world are unable to produce enough food to sustain a household, never mind a population. My goal is to target this issue by starting multiple community gardens in different places around the world and impart knowledge onto the people nearby while also donating to the locals. Therefore, the community can self-sustain and teach the generations after them well after the time has come for volunteers to leave the fostering community in order to teach another community in need. I plan to use my education in computer science to code programs to analyze the soil characteristics thus providing our team with real-time information to boost their crop yields, which can be further expanded to check the air quality as crop production losses can be alleviated by air quality improvements. In addition, we could take it a step further by using programming combined with science, to ensure that the products produced are perfectly ripe when picked, with no flaws nor pollutants and are full of nutrients. By doing so, computer science can help increase product yield and provide more nutrition thus leading to healthier people. Just like how a plant requires certain things to grow, humans require basic needs to survive, food, water, and shelter. By applying computer science to the issue of food security, I will ensure people globally all have one of the three basic human needs to survive, food. I want to ensure that no one experiences being hungry unwillingly. My core values, learner, leader, and community are fundamental to who I am and influence my world view.

Being involved in numerous extracurricular activities; including being a member and captain of the Girl’s Varsity team, president of Mastermind’s club (along with being the team captain for the varsity team), treasurer for class officers, and member of bowling and outdoor track, have made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter, all of which are vital skills. Since joining tennis after the pandemic, I have worked hard to improve my abilities. As a beginner, I always looked forward to my teammates and coach pointing out my mistakes and weakness and teaching me methods to overcome them. In addition, I seek help from resources online in order to improve my techniques. With their aid, along with my determination to progress, I have seen significant improvements in my performance and communication skills. Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content and wanting to learn more. Through the Student Helpdesk, I applied to become an Information Technology Summer Intern for my school district. I was introduced to coding when I installed a program in Python on numerous student’s laptops. This piqued my interest in the coding aspect of the computer science field which led me to take a Computer Science Principles course at my school. I felt my interest in the field solidifying. During this past summer, I had the opportunity to further expand my passion by participating in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program and a Big Data for Big Policy Problems at Cornell. To close the gender gap, Girls Who Code host 6-8 weeks long program to teach women coding skills and apply their knowledge towards creating games in Replit. With that being said, as a member of the Girls Who Code Community along with being a student athlete, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of my teammates, coach and mentors, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society.

Being involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including being a member and captain of the Girl’s Varsity team, has made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter, all of which are vital skills. Since joining tennis after the pandemic, I have worked hard to improve my abilities. Despite losing many matches, I always looked forward to my teammates and coach pointing out my mistakes and weakness and teaching me methods to overcome them. In addition, I seek help from resources online in order to improve my techniques. With their aid, along with my determination to progress, I have seen significant improvements in my performance. With that being said, as a member of the Girls Who Code Alumni community, I look forward to fostering a supportive network dedicated to helping other girls and non-binary people discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry through participation in summit to share my knowledge in the field. Just like how I was supported greatly from the guidance and support of my teammates and coach, I aspire to pay it forward by encouraging other women by being a mentor to others and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and skilled workforce in society. As part of tennis, I have experienced playing singles and doubles. From singles, I have learned a sense of independence while from doubles I learned a sense of teamwork and have improved my communication skills. By working together well with any of my teammates, I have felt a stronger sense of team. No matter which matches my coach has assigned me, I know that I am responsible for the outcome of the match. This has shown me the importance of taking ownership of my actions. When I missed a shot, I analyze the reason behind it, whether it be my timing, my speed, or my swing, I know I will need to focus on not making that mistake the next time. If I was not able to reach the ball in time, I know that the next time, I will need to run faster the next time. There is a constant need for improvements in my skills. Additionally, it shows that I am aware of my shortcomings and highlights that I am ready to fix them and improve myself.

Taking a deep breath, my cursor was hovering over the submit button. In a swift take, I pressed “submit” and exhaled. I am not one for attention, however, I stepped out of my comfort zone at the beginning of 11th grade to run for class treasurer for the class of 2024. Since then, I have shown up to every meeting on time and have even set up meetings for the class officers to meet. As treasurer, I plan extensively fundraising events with my peers and advisors and execute them successfully. From these events, I learned that I enjoy planning things out to great details. Furthermore, I prioritize organization, punctuality, and efficiency. This showed me that I thrive in a fast-paced environment and can collaborate efficiently in a group whether as a member following my assigned roles or taking charge as a leader and distributing tasks for others to collectively carry out large feats. By working together well with others, we can accomplish more, and larger, accomplishments rather than if we were to individually. As part of class officers, I have networked with many individuals and organizations which opened many opportunities for me, such as speaking at numerous Board of Education meetings as a representative of my school. Being a class officer has made me a better communicator, leader, and adapter. Ultimately, I want to be a strong role model for other young women who may have been afraid to use their voices. Thus, I want to pursue a major in computer science with a minor in business administration. I look forward to continuing being a part of Girls Who Code alumni to foster a supportive community dedicated to helping others discover and pursue their interests in the tech industry. To be a software developer is my long-term career goal. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. Well after earning my Bachelor of Science degree, I want to continue learning other programing languages as well as enhancing my current knowledge. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to the company’s success. I am excited to keep working hard and staying dedicated to continuously striving for my career goals and aspirations.

Clink. Clank. Clang. The rhythmic echoing sounds of the steel chuan (spatula) and hoak (ladle) cooking the food in the wok by the chefs in the kitchen. The aromatic smell lingering in the air of the stuffy kitchen. That is the nostalgic memory of my childhood and continues to be the sound I hear everywhere. The fast-paced environment of the kitchen is still with me even when I am out of the restaurant as I’ve grown accustomed to hearing it. For as long as I can remember, the restaurant has been where I have spent the majority of my time. Every day after school, on weekends, and during the summer, I have helped at my parent’s restaurant since I was a young child, around 7 years old. I quickly picked up on the functioning well-oiled system that my parents run, starting with taking customer’s order, cooking food, packing orders, to being able to manage the system on my own as my parents step out to run errands. Growing up in this setting, I had to balance assisting at the restaurant, academic studies, extracurricular activities, sport commitment, and volunteering. This has taught me the value of responsibility, communication, time-management, and sacrifice. From this upbringing stemmed my strong work ethic as my parents have taught me the importance of education, making sure I excel in my academic studies. Due to my unwavering dedication, I have been able to get into the National Honor Society, maintain a perfect attendance streak, and retain a 4.0 GPA all while being involved in numerous extracurriculars activities and volunteering in the community. My intense desire to know, to absorb the vast knowledge surrounding me is what defines me. Growing up in the restaurant fueled my hunger for knowledge and pursuit of higher education. To be a software developer is my long-term career goal. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. Well after earning my Bachelor of Science degree, I want to continue learning other programing languages as well as enhancing my current knowledge. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to the company’s success. I am excited to keep working hard and staying dedicated to continuously striving for my career goals and aspirations. I believe my academic and career goals will motivate me in life to keep persisting and are worthy of consideration for the scholarship.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into my career. I remembered being charmed in computer science, specifically hardware and coding, and wanted to further explore my interest. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself enjoying the content and wanting more knowledge in the Computer Science field. Since then, I have participated in several hackathons hosted by Women in Computing at Rochester Institute of Technology, coding programs (Big Data for Big Policy at Cornell and Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program during the summer), as well as computer related courses (Computer Science Principles and Digital Electronics) in high school to further develop my interest. I am excited to major in Computer Science next fall as a first-generation college student. Even though I am a low-income student, I still aim to pursue higher level education. To be a software developer is my long-term career goal. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons as well as coding programs and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. Well after earning my Bachelor of Science degree, I want to continue learning other programing languages as well as enhancing my current knowledge. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to the company’s success. I am excited to keep working hard and staying dedicated to continuously striving for my career goals and aspirations. Success for me is setting a goal with detailed steps to achieve that objective. I will need motivation, belief, and discipline to accomplish it. By setting a sight or purpose behind my goal, I will be motivated when I remind myself of the outcomes of attaining my goal. Anything is possible when you believe in yourself that you can fulfill something. Lack of discipline will cause you to deviate from your goals and hinder you from achieving your goal. Success is the fruition of time and continuous hard work.

Joining the Student DELL Helpdesk sophomore year at my school was at first on a whim. However, that whim has now turned into a passion. As I began to work towards my DELL Client Foundations Certificate in 2021, I found myself intrigued by the content, however, wanted to get a sense of what a career in the computer science field was like. Through the Student Helpdesk, I applied to become an Information Technology Summer Intern for the East Irondequoit Central School District. Over the summer, I was introduced to coding when I installed a program in Python on student’s laptops. This piqued my interest in the coding aspect of the computer science field which led me to take a Computer Science Principles course at my school. As I used Scratch to create a mini game and learned Python, I felt my interest in the field solidifying. During this past summer, I had the opportunity to further expand my passion by participating in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program, where I learned p5.js, a library in JavaScript to make interactive games. In addition, I participated in Big Data for Big Policy Problems at Cornell where I learned R-Studio, a library in R, to produce graphics using data collected to then interpret and draw conclusions. To be a software developer is my long-term career goal. I strongly believe pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a crucial step towards fulfilling my career aspiration. Over the course of years, I have taken part in several hackathons (sponsored by Rochester Institute of Technology Women in Computing) as well as coding programs (Girls Who Code, Cornell’s Big Data for Big Policy Problems Course, Computer Science Principles class, and Digital Electronics class) and have since realized that computers are essential for many parts of our lives. I plan to be proficient in JavaScript, SQL, and Python whilst earning my computer science degree, thus taking the first steps to becoming a software developer. Well after earning my Bachelor of Science degree, I want to continue learning other programing languages as well as enhancing my current knowledge. I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly growing computer science industry. By continuously learning, I aim to bring new ideas to discussions and contribute to the company’s success. I am excited to keep working hard and staying dedicated to continuously striving for my career goals and aspirations. My experience in computer science has made me a student eager for knowledge and active participant in creating an inclusive community – one where I can empower other women to be interested in the technology field and creating immersive service experiences across the city. I am excited to participate in Women in Computing and Public Service Corps as I will ultimately learn more about my own major while fostering meaningful friendships and aiding my community. I look forward to being a part of change makers and life-learners. I believe that with life pursuit of knowledge, we can contribute to a group and foster new ideas.

My name is Sandy Chi. In Chinese, it is chí xīn tíng, last name is put before the first name. Xīn means wealth and prosperity, and tíng, means beautiful and graceful. I am the eldest child of Chinese immigrants who have both completed only grade school back home in China. This makes me a first-generation student, a fact both nerve-wracking and exciting. I plan to pursue a major in computer science with a minor in either accounting or data analytics. Ever since I was a child, my favorite subject has been math. I’m not sure how I started developing an interest in computer programming, but it started when I joined the Student Helpdesk in 10th grade which then led me to take a Computer Science Principles course in 11th grade. I was hooked on coding! Over the summer, I had the opportunity to expand my passion for the coding field by participating in a Girls Who Code Self Immersion Program, where I learned p5.js, a library in JavaScript to make an interactive avatar, choose your own adventure game, and collection style game. In addition, I participated in a Big Data for Big Policy Problems at Cornell where I learned R-Studio, a library in R, to produce graphics regarding data collected which we are then able to interpret. A bonus is that there are many openings for the fields I plan to major in, with a high growth rate, and paying 6 figures! I plan to use my money wisely, not overspending it or going on frequent shopping sprees, but instead, take only a small portion of my income for myself and give the rest to my parents so that they can retire early and live comfortably. I would also use my money to help my brother pay for his higher-level education as I know he has a bright future ahead of him with his vast intelligence. Most of my money, however, will be donated to organizations that align with my interests, such as World Vision and Save the Children. Both are dedicated to keeping children safe, healthy and educated. I have grown up in a household that prioritizes education as it is a way to improve your life for the better. I want others to have the same opportunity to improve their life by being educated. Since I was approximately 9, I have helped at my family’s restaurant. I started off taking orders, then calculating the prices, handling the bill, taking phone calls, and cooking in the back, and can now run the restaurant solely while both of my parents are out running errands, delivering orders, or taking a nap. My upbringing has allowed me to have a strong work ethic, allowing me to prosper in school, understand the importance of responsibility, and the ability to balance the numerous tasks and activities I have going on. I am a hardworking student as evidenced by the numerous rigorous classes I have taken throughout high school. I am involved in numerous extracurricular activities, such as being a treasurer of Class Officers, volunteering at the Rochester General Hospital, being involved in clubs, such as Masterminds and Envirothon, and sports, including Varsity Tennis and Varsity Outdoor Track. As Deborah Roberts mentioned before, “Aim high, work hard, and love your family.” I think this quote fully aligns with my values and mindset. I have goals for myself and work hard to accomplish these set goals. I am very thankful to my family and feel great pride in being a part of the Chi family.

Volunteering has opened my mind to the most dedicated hard-working people firsthand with my own eyes. All the nurses and doctors at the Rochester General Hospital continuously work hard to care for the patients round the clock. I have seen it first personally in the different departments I have been assigned to and can say that they prioritize safety and care for patients. I have been to the cardiology, orthopedic, and radiology department where I met various staff who are a bundle of energy, always moving around, and doing something for their patients. This has inspired me to work hard to care for the patients in my department as I could not fall behind and drag the team. As soon as I arrive at 3:55 for my 4:00 PM shift, I make my rounds to see if there are any tasks that I need to take care of immediately. Then, I stack the cart up with essentials such as gloves and cups of water and make my way around the ward to refill the gloves and ask patients if they need anything. As they request juices, crackers, and sodas, I attentively retrieve the items from the kitchen and hand them to the patients. If they start speaking, I stand next to them and maintain a conversation as I know that in the hospital, they don’t have many people to talk to. As social beings, we facilitate many conversations with others to thrive. Since I have volunteered at the hospital, I have looked forward to my session, rushing toward my department with a smile on my face and determination to accomplish bringing smiles to others. It fills me with a sense of ebullience as I serve others and meet their needs. I plan to continue volunteering at the hospital again during the school year as I genuinely enjoy the feeling of glee it gives me every time. This experience has shifted my mindset from thinking "everything is about me" to "everyone is not about me" as volunteering broaden my horizon to others. I have learned to look at the bigger picture instead of the small, in-the-moment, picture, and see the effects of my actions on others. I need this scholarship as my family is low-income. I have done the calculations online to see my expected pell grant and family contributions. While I do know my parents would aid me with college in any way possible, it is said that my family contribution is $0. I yearn to release the burden off their shoulders by looking for scholarships so that I can pursue higher education in Computer Science, with a minor in Business, as a minority and first-generation student without worries.

Choosing a single song out of one of my top favorite albums by one of my top favorite artists is harder than I expected. But as I flip through all the songs of the 1989 album, I am compelled to replay one song in particular. Walkin' through a crowd, the village is aglow… Walking down the busy streets at every corner of New York City is truly a thrilling experience. Everyone is preoccupied with their thoughts and problems that they pay you no mind, giving you a sense of freedom to be who you are. As I’m walking, I heard enchanting echoes singing a sound we haven’t before saying Welcome to New York, it’s been waitin’ for you… New York is truly one of the most attractive states, attracting various sorts of people from different ethnic groups, religions, and beliefs. There is something unfathomable about New York, and even after living here for my whole life, I can’t imagine living in another state. Even as I visit other metropolises such as Philadelphia and Toronto, I can not help but feel like it’s nothing compared to the Big Apple. It's a new soundtrack, I could dance to this beat, beat forevermore… The beat gives off an upbeat vibe, perfect for traveling or to cheer up on a sad day. One listen to Welcome to New York by Taylor Swift will swell giddiness over many memories of being in New York City, washing away all my gloominess. It is in my liked songs on Spotify and all the songs playlist I created on YouTube: Lyrics to Belt to, Song to Listen To, and All Time Faves. The lights are so bright, but they never blind me… As I look upward at the skyscrapers, buildings, sculptures, and people, I am mesmerized by the ethereal beauty surrounding me. I can hear my heart beating loudly as I gaze. Even though others look away after a glance, I am left in awe-struck, staring at these lights till I am pulled away. And you can want who you want… As The City That Nevers Sleeps is comprised of various people from different backgrounds, it truly makes for a judgment-free area as chances are out of the 8 million living there, there is another human being who is going through the same troubles that you are facing. A wave of ease washes over you as you know you are not alone in this Empire City. Welcome to New York Welcome to New York

A technology that inspires me to believe that technology can make the world a better place is one of the most common one, a cellphone. I know cellphones have a bad connotation to them as they are seen as a threat to the younger generations who are spending more time than ever, on social medias scrolling endless hours through their feeds, liking, commenting, and sharing videos as well as reading malicious content which harms one’s self esteem. However, cellphone allows us to connect to people from all around the globe. Take me for example. My parents, originally from China, immigrated to the United States before I was even born, looking for new opportunities in this land of the free. My grandparents, however, are still in China living their everyday life in a small rural town. I have not seen my grandparents ever since I was a little baby, while my brother has not visited our ancestor’s home country during his whole 14 years of existence, and my parents haven’t gone back ever since they settled in the States. With the invention of cell phone and especially WeChat –a messaging app common among Chinese, similar to WhatsApp—I am able to stay in touch with my grandparents and have a conversation with them. Although I have no recollection of seeing them face-to-face, I do know what they look like, the sound of their voice, and my parent’s hometown through our monthly videocalls. On top of that, I want to make them proud by going to college and landing a successful job so I can support both my grandparents and parents. The invention of mobile devices motivates me to work hard as I am reminded of why I put in immense effort in maintaining a 4.0 GPA, taking all advanced courses through my years in high school, doing volunteer work, busying my summer, and striving for college. In addition to that, a cellular device can connect us to our relatives overseas, medical emergency with a click of a button, and news from all over the world in a matter of an instant.